African Sweet Potato Pudding

This was probably the inspiration for the filling to the sweet pototo pies found in America these days. Although not low-fat by any means, it is simple and satisfying. Recipe by Angela Self Medearis. *Cook time does not include refreigeration time.

• Ready In: 1 hr 40 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1  quart water
• 6  medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes (about 2 pounds)
• 3  cups  whole milk
• 1  cup heavy cream
• 1⁄2 cup sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon powdered saffron
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground cardamom

Directions

1. Boil the water in a heavy saucepan. Drop in the sweet potato cubes and cook, uncovered, until tender - about 25 to 30 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pan.
2. Add the milk, cream, sugar, saffron and cardamom. Stirring often with a wooden spoon, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 1 hour, stirring often. The pudding is done when it is smooth and is thick enough to hold its shape almost solidly in the spoon.
3. With the back of the spoon, rub the pudding through a fine sieve into a serving bowl.
4. Refrigerate the pudding until cool. Before serving, sprinkle the top with a little additional ground cardamom.