Jan'l's Sweet Potato Waffles

1 1/2 c. sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 c. flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
6 egg whites at room temperature
1 c. milk
1/4 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. butter, melted
1 Tbsp grated orange rind

Steam sweet potatoes, mash and set aside. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt and set aside. In another bowl combine sweet potatoes, milk, sugar, butter, and orange rind. Stir the mixture into the flour mixture and thoroughly combine. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold eggs into batter 1/3 at a time. Batter will be thick. Cook on oiled waffle iron until lightly browned about 5-6 minutes. Serve with pecans and cool whip or maple syrup.