Preheat oven to 375F.

Cut each potato half lengthwise into fourths. Steam potatoes on a steamer rack set over boiling water, covered, until just tender, 10 to 15 minutes, then cool, uncovered. Transfer to a buttered 3-quart shallow baking dish.

Simmer brown sugar, butter, water, and salt, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved and syrup is thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in bourbon to taste. Drizzle syrup over potatoes and bake in middle of oven, basting occasionally, until syrup is thickened, about 1 1/4 hours.

Cooks' note:

• Sweet potatoes may be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered. Reheat before serving.

Per serving: 2592 Calories (kcal); 184g Total Fat; (65% calories from fat); 2g Protein; 214g Carbohydrate; 496mg Cholesterol; 646mg Sodium Food Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 0 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 0 Fruit; 36 1/2 Fat; 14 1/2 Other Carbohydrates