Steakhouse Mashed Sweet Potatoes

I had heard some great things about the mashed sweet potatoes at Outback Steakhouse, so recently my husband and I decided to have a night out to try this side dish for ourselves. My husband ordered the Outback Special Sirloin, and I opted for the Grilled Pork Chops. We both decided to try the mashed sweet potatoes as our side dishes. Wow! They were delicious. It was such a refreshing change from the baked potato that is the typical steakhouse fare. They were a little sweet with lots of cinnamon and a hint of vanilla. I heartily recommend them to anyone who plans to visit Outback Steakhouse.

The next day I decided to see if I could find a similar recipe for sweet potatoes. It did not take long, The Chicago Sun Times had the Official Outback Recipe on their website. I urge you to give it a try. I am having a barbecue for a few friends later this week, and Outback Vanilla Bean Mashed Sweet Potatoes are definitely on the menu.

To add a little gourmet touch, I am serving them with Candied Curried Pecans. Pecans always go well with sweet potatoes, but these are extra special. They are also a little sweet and little spicy, and very easy to make. I have two curried pecan recipes that I really like, so I will share them both. The Curried Pecans have a little grated orange rind which makes this recipe very unique, and Candied Curried Pecans are just a tad spicier due to a sprinkling of cayenne pepper. Of course, Curry is the real star in both of these recipes. Either one is sure to excite your guest's taste buds.