For a Thanksgiving appetizer that’s both easy and elegant, Grant Achatz of Alinea Restaurant in Chicago suggests a sweet, creamy combination of cinnamon, ginger, brown sugar, sweet potatoes and whipped cream. Serve this dip with crackers or fruit for a scrumptious starter that celebrates the best flavors of the season.

Sweet Potato Toppers

Serves 20

4  cups whipping cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices (about 1¾ lbs. total)
3/4 cup bourbon or orange juice
1/2 cup raisins
1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1  teaspoon ginger
Garlic and herb-flavored crackers

1. In large saucepan, combine cream, granulated sugar and salt. Add potatoes. Bring to boil; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, about 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
2. Drain potatoes. Place potatoes in food processor. Cover and process until smooth. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
3. Meanwhile, in small saucepan, combine bourbon and raisins. Bring to a simmer. Remove from heat. Let stand for 1 hour.
4. Drain raisins. Pat lightly with paper towels.
5. In shallow dish, combine brown sugar, cinnamon and ginger. Add raisins. Stir until coated.
6. Generously spread sweet potato mixture on crackers. Top each with 3 or 4 raisins.

Note: Because you’re dedicated to organic living, OrganicAuthority.com recommends using certified organic ingredients, when available, in all recipes to maximize flavor, while minimizing your risk of exposure to pesticides, chemicals and preservatives.

Recipe and photo courtesy of Town House Crackers