Cider-Mashed Sweet Potatoes

2/3 cup apple cider 
5 large sweet potatoes or yams, scrubbed but unpeeled
1/4 cup vegan margarine
2 Tbsp. light brown sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
Lightly toasted, chopped pecans or thinly sliced pineapple rings, for garnish

• Boil the cider in a small saucepan over high heat until reduced by half, about 7 minutes. Set aside.
• Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the sweet potatoes and cook until tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Drain well.
• Peel the hot sweet potatoes, using a kitchen towel to protect your hands. Return the potatoes to the warm pot, add the cider, margarine, brown sugar, and salt and mash until well blended.
• Garnish and serve hot.
  

Makes 8 to 10 servings