Caribbean Spiced Sweet Potatoes

© 2008 Miri Rotkovitz

I get the appeal of a brisk autumn day, and changing leaves, and pumpkin picking. I like breaking out the cozy sweaters, breathing in the crisp air, and warming my hands with a mug of hot spiced cider. But I hate the end of Daylight Savings Time. It's bad enough that it gets dark around 4:30; it seems that the moment we "fall back" the weather turns cloudy for days on end, too.

Maybe that's why I crave sunny-colored fare, like these Caribbean Spiced Sweet Potatoes. If the bright color doesn't cheer you, the blend of sweet and savory island spices -- including allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, hot pepper, ginger, and garlic -- will transport you to the blue-skied, clear-watered Caribbean. Though they may set you to thinking about your next vacation, they're worth considering for your Thanksgiving menu, too, especially if you want to mix things up a bit this year.