Spiced Sweet Potato Gratin with Goat Cheese

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon grated or finely chopped garlic
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 2 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes (scrubbed)
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 ounces soft goat cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped green pumpkin seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 400 (200 C) degrees.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, lime juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt and chili.

3. 3

   Peel the potatoes if you prefer — I often just scrape off any bruised sections, leaving most of the skin on. Slice the potatoes into ⅛-inch thick rounds, using a mandoline, or use a very sharp knife and great knife skills :)

4. 4

   Toss the sweet potatoes in the bowl to coat with the spiced oil. Arrange the potatoes upright in a 2-quart baking dish with the edges face-up, pouring the liquid from the bowl over all. Grind black pepper over the top to taste.

5. 5

   Bake 45 minutes. Sprinkle the cheeses evenly over the top and return to the oven for 10 more minutes, until the cheese is softened and melting.

6. 6

   Sprinkle the cilantro and pumpkin seeds over the top. Serve warm or at room temperature.