Instructions: The following dish was inspired by a gratin served at Mesa Grill in New York City. In that recipe six sweet potatoes are combined with a chipotle chili and a quart of heavy cream for a rich and delicious side dish. In our version a similarly sweet-hot balance is achieved with the addition of enchilada sauce and cheese but no cream.

Preheat oven to 375F. In a large saucepan simmer enchilada sauce, water, and garlic with salt to taste, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Peel potatoes and cut crosswise into 1/8-inch-thick slices. In a 3-quart gratin or shallow baking dish layer one fourth of potatoes in concentric circles, overlapping slightly, and sprinkle with 1/3 cup cheese. Continue to layer remaining potatoes and cheese in same manner, ending with cheese. Pour sauce slowly over potatoes, letting it seep between layers, and bake gratin set in a shallow baking pan (it may bubble over) in middle of oven 1 hour, or until potatoes are tender. Gratin may be made 2 days ahead and chilled, covered. Reheat gratin, covered, in oven.

Serves 6 to 8.

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