Elevate Your Holiday Table with Camélia’s Sweet Potato Gratin

Reimagining Comfort Food: Camélia’s Sweet Potato Gratin

At the heart of Los Angeles’ culinary scene lies Camélia, one of the Best New Restaurants of 2025, where Chef Charles Namba introduces a unique twist on the traditional sweet potato gratin. This dish marries the comforting flavors of French cuisine with a distinct Japanese influence, elevating it to new heights.

A Nostalgic Inspiration

Chef Namba recalls his childhood memories of enjoying Japanese sweet potatoes, where simplicity met comfort. "When I was little, my mom prepared Japanese sweet potatoes by cutting one in half, shoving cold butter between the slices, and microwaving it," Namba shares. This nostalgic method inspired him to create a modern yet familiar dish that plays on these memories. Instead of the standard thin orange layers typical of many gratins, Namba opted for substantial chunks of cream-colored Japanese sweet potatoes, which are softer and sweeter than their orange counterparts.

The Perfect Preparation

This gratin breaks the mold of traditional preparation techniques. By boiling the Japanese sweet potatoes until tender and then lightly mashing them with salty-sweet miso butter, Namba eliminates the labor-intensive mandoline slicing often required for gratins. This approach not only preserves the rich flavors but also reduces prep time, making the dish accessible for home cooks and impressively indulgent at the same time.

The Savory Touch of Umami

What truly sets this gratin apart is its umami-rich flavor profile. Once the potato mixture is spread into a casserole dish, it’s topped with cheese and a sprinkle of chives and nori, adding a depth of flavor that enhances each decadent bite. The result is a dish that boasts crispy edges, savory layers, and the creamy richness you expect from a gratin, but with a twist of Japanese culinary flair.

Easy Holiday Side Dish

Namba’s sweet potato gratin is not just a dish; it’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of holiday feasting. Whether you’re preparing for a grand holiday dinner or a warm family gathering, this gratin is an ideal choice. Its luxurious texture and depth of flavor make it a standout side dish, ensuring it will be the talk of the table.

Where to Find Japanese Sweet Potatoes

Japanese sweet potatoes aren’t just found in specialty markets; they can often be located in well-stocked grocery stores or international markets. Their slightly sweeter flavor and starchier texture are what set them apart, making them well worth the search. If you can’t find them, don’t worry—a regular sweet potato or garnet yam can serve as a delicious substitute.

Conclusion

Camélia’s sweet potato gratin exemplifies the kind of innovative cooking that blends nostalgia with modern creativity. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it encourages everyone to explore comfort food in new ways. The next time you’re looking for an exciting side dish, consider this unique interpretation of a classic dish. It’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.