Preparation

• In a large saucepan, combine the sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips; cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, add a dash of salt, and simmer until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and return to the saucepan. Set the pan over low heat, uncovered, and let the vegetables dry in the pan for about 2 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally so they don’t stick. Pass the vegetables through a food mill or mash them by hand, if you prefer. (Hand mashing gives a rustic texture to the dish, while a food mill will give a smoother result.) Stir in the butter, sour cream, molasses, grated ginger, and half-and-half (if you’re preparing the potatoes ahead, save 2 Tbs. of the half-and-half for reheating). Add 1/2 tsp. salt and pepper to taste, adjust the seasonings, and serve.