CHEF JEFF -- ONE BYTE AT A TIME: Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

This side dish is a nice alternative the traditional version.

Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes

6 sweet potatoes

½ cup plus 1 tablespoon butter, melted and divided

6 tablespoons apple juice

2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed

½ teaspoon ground ginger

1 cup mini-marshmallows

1/3 cup sweetened flaked coconut

Bake sweet potatoes at 375 degrees for 50 to 60 minutes, until tender. Cool slightly. Partially slice potatoes lengthwise; scoop out centers, leaving 1/8-inch thick shells. Mash potato pulp in a medium bowl. Add ½ cup butter, apple juice, brown sugar and ginger; beat until fluffy. Spoon into shells. Mix together marshmallows, coconut and remaining butter; spoon over potatoes. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes, until heated through.

Yield: Serves 6.

Grab more food tidbits at the Chef Jeff blog at GrandForksHerald.com.