2 lb. Sweet Potatoes or yams, scrubbed
4 tbsp. (1/2 stick) butter, softened (or to taste)
Salt to taste

Optional Seasonings:

1/2 cup chopped pineapple (or to taste)
1/2 cup pecans or 1/4 cup black walnuts, to taste
3 tbsp. Diced crystallized ginger or 1/2 tsp. ground
2 tbsp. Light or dark brown sugar
1 tbsp. Bourbon or dry sherry
1 tsp. Grated orange or lemon zest
pinch of ground cloves or 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Boil sweet potatoes until thoroughly tender. Drain and let stand until cool enough to handle. Remove the skins, then mash or put the potatoes through a food mill. Add butter and salt to taste. Thin with cream or one of the liquids listed. Add your choice of optional seasonings. Beat the potatoes with a fork or whisk until very light. Serve immediately or reheat at 375°F in a buttered baking dish. Garnish with fine shards of orange zest.