Sweet indulgences

When the mercury drops, I find my pantry suddenly filled with cozy veggies, mostly those from underground or that can last a winter in an oaken barrel in a cellar. Except I don't have any barrels or subterranean storage. But you get the picture: squash, onions, potatoes, carrots, apples...the cozy stuff.

I invented this next dish as a spicy awakening for the senses when you just want to hunker down for a long autumn's nap. I will be making this side dish ALL the time because it's the perfect balance of flavorful, satisfying, and special.

Glowing Sweet Potato Fries (with Garlic-Pesto mayo)

1. Preheat the oven to 375

2. Slice two medium sweet potatoes lengthwise into thin matchsticks, about 1/4" on each side. Spread on jelly roll pan and toss with:

2 Tbsp. olive oil

1 tsp curry powder

1 tsp paprika (smoked is awesome if you have it on hand)

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2 tsp sea salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

3. Bake until thoroughly cooked and a the skins begin to crackle (you don't want them soft and mushy- a little over-done is OK). Takes 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 or 15.

4. Meanwhile, combine 1/2 c plain yogurt with 1/8 c mayo (more if you like), 2 Tbsp pesto and 1 large clove finely minced garlic. Let this sit while the fries bake so the flavors really come through.

These are incredible, I've had them with tomato soup on a rainy day or with any range of entrees. Happy spicy munching!