3 slices bacon, finely chopped

1 medium onion, chopped

2 Tablespoons butter

3 cloves garlic, chopped

4 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

8 cups chicken broth

¼ cup pickled jalapenos*

2 Tablespoons jalapeno juice*

1 teaspoon cumin

¼ teaspoon baking soda

½ cup cilantro

1½ cups half & half

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

Sauté bacon, onion, and garlic in butter.

Add sweet potatoes, chicken broth, pickled jalapenos, juice, and cumin. Cover and cook un􀆟l potatoes are tender.

When tender, add soda, cilantro, and half & half.

Coarsely mash potatoes with a potato masher. Add salt and pepper and stir well. Add more salt and pepper to taste.