Another take on Sweet Potatoes

As many of you already know, I was lucky enough to spend some time in Wheaton Illinois visiting family. One evening we were all invited to dinner at the home of my niece´s boyfriend Jack. His parents are about to undertake a major house renovation and this was to be the last dinner cooked in the old kitchen. My brother in law is an architect and he designed the new kitchen. I look forward to the next visit to Wheaton to see the results. Anyways, back to dinner! Mrs. Schlenker created a wonderful meal in her "old trusty kitchen" and today I would like to feature 2 of those recipes.

Scallion Sweet Potatoes!

Combine 1 1/2 lbs chopped, peeled sweet potatoes, 1 bunch scallions(cut into 2 inch pieces), 6 crushed garlic cloves and 1 Tablespoon fresh thyme in a bowl. Drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil-season with salt and pepper and toss. Place on a sheet of foil and fold up. Grill over low heat until the potatoes are tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

Coffee-Marinated Grilled Pork

Ingredients:

1/2 cup freshly ground coffee

1/2 cup veggie oil

1/4 cup light molasses

1/4 cup dry roasted macadamia nuts

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 small garlic cloves

2 Tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 Tablespoon mirin

1 jalapeno chile, coarsely chopped

1 1/2 tsp minced peeled fresh ginger

1 1/2 tsp kosher salt

1 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

2 pork tenderloins(2 1/2 lbs total)

Directions:

Puree all ingredients except pork in food processor until smooth. Combine with pork in a ziplock bag and chill for 24-48 hours. Grill over med heat until thermometer registers 145° F, turning often-about 25 minutes. Transfer to work surface, let stand for 10 minuets. Slice thin.

Now, just add your favorite salad, some homemade bread and there you go---a very delicious dinner!

Thanks again to the Schlenker Family for a wonderful evening filled with great food, good wine and wonderful company. Good luck on the remodel and hope to see you the next time I am in town.

Looking for more great ideas, please stop by Designs by Gollum for more inspiration!