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In a medium pot, bring 5 cups water (8 cups for 4 servings) to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Wash and dry produce.
Peel sweet potato if desired; cut into 1⁄2-inch pieces. Strip thyme leaves from stems; roughly chop leaves until you have 1⁄2 tsp (1 tsp for 4). Peel and mince or grate garlic.