Rutabaga Casserole (Lanttulaatikko — Finland)

2 (1 pound) rutabagas
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup half-and-half
2 teaspoons granulated sugar or corn syrup
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter or margarine

Slice and pare rutabagas; cut into 1/2-inch cubes.

Heat 1 inch salted water to boiling. Add rutabagas. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and cook until tender, about 20 minutes.

Drain rutabagas, reserving 1/4 cup cooking liquid. Mash rutabagas with reserved liquid or puree through food mill or blender.

Stir remaining ingredients except butter into rutabagas. Pour into greased 1 1/2-quart casserole; dot with butter. Bake at 350 degrees F until top is light brown, 45 to 50 minutes.

Yields 6 to 8 servings.