Just Folks. Pumpkin Pie vs. Sweet Potato Pie?
Pumpkin Pie vs. Sweet Potato Pie?
It's pie season and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Whether you prefer Pumpkin or Sweet Potato, both are as American as apple pie!
The simple difference is that Pumpkin pie is traditionally eaten by people from the Northeast, and if you're from the South or African American, you have grown up knowing Sweet Potato pie. Both however, are considered sacred at any holiday meal. While both pies are similar in color, the pie filling and flavor are very distinctive. Pumpkins were found growing freely in the "New World" by European settlers in the Northeast. Recipes were created using a variety of spices such as cinnamon, mace, cloves and nutmeg with minimal sweetness added to the custard filling. In the South, it is believed that slaves were responsible for introducing Sweet Potato pie. Since slaves were in charge of land owners’ kitchens, pumpkins were gradually replaced by sweet potatoes. In pies, the texture is generally more like a "mashed potato," sweetened using brown sugar, milk or heavy cream are added, and then the mixture is flavored with vanilla or molasses. Pecans are also used. Crusts.....well if you're lucky enough to have your Grandmother's recipe I wouldn't dare to question it! I think the real “controversy” here is this... which pie was served at the "First Thanksgiving?"
Editor’s Note: We say, “no matter—north, south, east or west. Let’s have both!”
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Pumpkin Pie vs. Sweet Potato Pie?
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