HEARTY SWEET POTATO AU GRATIN

Serves: 8-10

2 medium sweet potatoes, ■ about 1-1/2 lb (750 g) in total 2 tbsp (30 mL) butter ■

1 large clove garlic, minced ■ 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) salt ■

2 tbsp (30 mL) all-purpose ■ flour

2 cups (500 mL) 18 per cent ■ cream

2 tbsp (30 mL) chopped fresh ■ thyme (optional)

1/2 cup (125 mL) shredded aged ■ Canadian Cheddar

1. Preheat oven to 375 F (190 C). Peel potatoes; slice into rounds no thicker than 1/8 inch (0.3 cm). In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add garlic and salt. Stir 1 minute. Whisk in flour until combined. Gradually add cream, whisking until combined. Bring to a boil, whisking occasionally until thickened, for 2 to 3 minutes.

2. Layer half of potatoes in an 8-by-8-inch (20-by-20 cm) baking dish. Scatter with half of thyme. Top with half of cream sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes; drizzle remaining cream mixture over top.

3. Press potatoes to even out layers and coat in cream. Cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.

4. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and remaining thyme.

5. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes until bubbly and top is a deep golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes.

Variation: Use a combo of Yukon Gold and sweet potatoes.