Candied Yams

Candied yams are a delicious Southern side dish that's perfect for holiday meals. You'll love how sweet potatoes transform into a caramelized treat with just a few simple ingredients. To make them, slice your yams, mix up a spicy-sweet syrup, and bake until they're tender and glazed. The result? A mouthwatering blend of flavors that'll have everyone asking for seconds. While traditionally sweet, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, mastering this classic dish will impress your guests and add a touch of warmth to any gathering. There's more to discover about this beloved comfort food.

Key Takeaways

• Candied yams are a sweet side dish made with sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and spices.
• The dish originated in the American South and is often served during holiday celebrations.
• Preparation involves slicing yams, coating them in a sugar-spice mixture, and baking until caramelized.
• Common ingredients include cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange juice, with optional marshmallow topping.
• Candied yams can be customized by adjusting sweetness or adding toppings like toasted pecans.

History

The origins of candied yams can be traced back to the American South. You'll find that this sweet and savory dish has been a staple of Southern cuisine for generations, particularly during holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Yams, which are actually sweet potatoes, were introduced to the Americas through the transatlantic slave trade. African slaves brought their knowledge of cultivating and cooking these tubers, adapting their traditional recipes to incorporate local ingredients.

The practice of candying yams likely evolved from earlier methods of preserving sweet potatoes. By coating them in sugar and baking them, you'd create a dish that was both delicious and long-lasting. This technique was especially valuable in times when food preservation was crucial.

As the dish gained popularity, it spread beyond the South and became a beloved part of American cuisine. You'll now find variations of candied yams across the country, with regional twists and family recipes passed down through generations.

The dish's evolution reflects the blending of African, European, and Native American culinary traditions that shaped Southern cooking.

Recipe

Candied yams are a beloved Southern dish that graces many holiday tables, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. This sweet and comforting side dish combines the natural sweetness of yams with a rich, caramelized glaze that's sure to please both kids and adults alike.

While often called yams, this dish is typically made with sweet potatoes, which are more readily available in North America. The orange-fleshed variety of sweet potatoes works best for this recipe, as they become tender and creamy when cooked. The addition of butter, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a luxurious coating that transforms these humble root vegetables into a decadent treat.

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup miniature marshmallows (optional)

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch thick slices. Arrange them in a 9×13 inch baking dish.

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then add brown sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. Pour this mixture over the sweet potatoes, ensuring they're evenly coated. Next, cover the sweet potatoes with aluminum foil and bake them in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes. While the sweet potatoes are baking, you can prepare a festive cranberry punch recipe to serve alongside the main dish. Simply mix cranberry juice, ginger ale, and a splash of fresh lime juice in a large pitcher or punch bowl. This refreshing and colorful drink will complement the flavors of the sweet potatoes and make for a delightful holiday meal.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the foil, baste the potatoes with the syrup, and continue baking uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the syrup has thickened and the potatoes are caramelized. If using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.

For best results, choose sweet potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. You can prepare this dish a day ahead and reheat it before serving.

If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute some with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Remember to baste the potatoes occasionally during cooking to keep them moist and ensure the glaze coats them evenly.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Cooking Steps

To begin preparing your candied yams, you'll want to preheat your oven to 375°F and slice the yams into uniform rounds.

Next, you'll mix your chosen spices with sugar to create a flavorful blend that'll coat the yams.

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F

Before diving into the recipe, you'll need to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This crucial step ensures your candied yams cook evenly and develop that perfect caramelized exterior.

While your oven's heating up, it's a great time to gather your ingredients and prepare your baking dish.

Preheating serves several important purposes:

• It creates a consistent cooking environment
• It helps achieve the right texture and flavor
• It reduces overall cooking time

Most modern ovens take about 15-20 minutes to reach 375°F. If you've got an older model, it might need a bit longer.

Don't rush this step – a fully preheated oven is key to successful candied yams.

Pro tip: Use an oven thermometer to double-check your oven's accuracy. Many ovens run a bit hot or cool, which can affect your cooking results.

While you're waiting, you can start peeling and cutting your yams. This way, you'll be ready to go as soon as your oven reaches the right temperature.

Step 2. Slice Yams Into Rounds

Slicing the yams into rounds is a crucial step in preparing delicious candied yams. To begin, wash your yams thoroughly under cool running water, scrubbing gently to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Next, grab a sharp chef's knife and a sturdy cutting board. Carefully cut off both ends of each yam, then stand it upright on one of the flat ends. Slice downward, creating rounds that are approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Try to maintain a consistent thickness for even cooking.

As you slice, you'll notice the yams' vibrant orange flesh. Don't worry if some rounds aren't perfectly circular; the rustic look adds charm to the dish. If you're working with larger yams, you may want to cut the rounds in half to create more manageable pieces.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use a sharp knife for clean cuts
• Keep your fingers tucked while slicing
• Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking
• Consider using a mandoline for ultra-thin, consistent slices

Once you've finished slicing, you're ready to move on to the next step in creating your mouthwatering candied yams.

Step 3. Mix Spices and Sugar

With your yams neatly sliced, it's time to create the irresistible coating that'll transform them into a sweet and spicy delight. In a medium bowl, you'll combine the perfect blend of spices and sugar to complement the natural sweetness of the yams.

A well-organized kitchen space can enhance your cooking experience and minimize distractions, allowing you to focus on creating delicious dishes like this one efficient storage strategies.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Start by measuring out the brown sugar, ensuring it's packed firmly into the measuring cup. Then, add each spice one at a time, taking care to level off each measurement for accuracy. The cinnamon provides warmth, while the nutmeg and ginger offer subtle complexity.

Don't forget the salt – it's crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Once you've added all the ingredients, use a whisk or fork to thoroughly combine them. You're aiming for a uniform mixture without any clumps.

This spice blend will caramelize beautifully in the oven, creating a glossy coating on your candied yams that's both visually appealing and incredibly tasty.

Step 4. Arrange Yams in Baking Dish

The next crucial step in creating your candied yams is arranging them in the baking dish. Take your peeled and cut yams, and carefully place them in a single layer at the bottom of your greased baking dish. It's important to ensure they're evenly distributed for consistent cooking.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use a dish that's large enough to accommodate all your yams without overcrowding.
• Leave a little space between each piece to allow the syrup to coat them evenly.
• If you have extra yams, it's better to use a second dish than to stack them.

As you're arranging, consider the presentation. You might want to place the most attractive pieces on top, as they'll be visible when serving. If you're using different varieties of yams, you can create a pattern or alternate colors for a visually appealing dish.

Once you've arranged your yams, it's time to pour the spice and sugar mixture over them. Make sure to distribute it evenly, coating each piece. This will help create that delicious, sticky-sweet glaze that makes candied yams so irresistible.

Step 5. Pour Syrup Over Yams

Pouring the syrup over your arranged yams is a crucial step that'll transform your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. As you prepare to add this sweet coating, make sure your syrup is still warm and fluid. This'll help it spread evenly and penetrate the yams more effectively.

Here's how to properly pour the syrup:

• Start from one corner of the baking dish
• Move in a zigzag pattern across the yams
• Use a ladle or measuring cup for controlled pouring
• Ensure each yam gets an equal amount of syrup

Don't worry if some yams aren't fully covered; they'll absorb the syrup during baking.

The syrup's high sugar content will caramelize in the oven, creating a glossy, amber-colored coating that's irresistibly delicious.

Final Thoughts

After mastering this recipe, you'll have a delightful side dish that's perfect for holidays or any special occasion.

Candied yams are a beloved tradition in many households, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness that complements a variety of main courses.

Remember, the key to perfect candied yams lies in the preparation and cooking process.

Don't rush the caramelization of the syrup, as this is what gives the dish its signature flavor and texture.

If you'd like to add a personal touch, consider experimenting with different spices or toppings. A sprinkle of cinnamon, a dash of nutmeg, or even a handful of toasted pecans can elevate the dish to new heights.

As you become more comfortable with the recipe, you may find yourself adjusting the sweetness level to suit your taste.

Some prefer a more savory version, while others enjoy an extra touch of sweetness.

Whatever your preference, this versatile dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

With practice, you'll soon be impressing friends and family with your perfectly candied yams at every gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Candied Yams Be Made Ahead of Time and Reheated?

Yes, you can definitely make candied yams ahead of time and reheat them! This is a great time-saving option for busy cooks.

Here's what you can do:

• Prepare the dish as usual
• Let it cool completely
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge (up to 3-4 days)
• When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating

Your candied yams will taste just as delicious as if you'd made them fresh!

Are There Any Healthier Alternatives to Traditional Candied Yams?

Yes, there are healthier alternatives to traditional candied yams.

You can try roasting sweet potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of cinnamon for natural sweetness.

Another option is mashing sweet potatoes with Greek yogurt and a touch of honey.

You might also consider using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of refined sugar.

These alternatives reduce added sugars and increase nutritional value while still offering delicious flavors.

What's the Difference Between Candied Yams and Sweet Potato Casserole?

You'll find that candied yams and sweet potato casserole are similar dishes, but they've some key differences.

Candied yams typically feature sliced or chunked yams cooked with a sweet syrup, often on the stovetop.

Sweet potato casserole, on the other hand, is usually made with mashed sweet potatoes and baked in the oven. It's often topped with marshmallows or a streusel topping.

Both dishes are sweet, but the casserole tends to be creamier and more complex in texture.

Can You Use Canned Yams Instead of Fresh for This Recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use canned yams instead of fresh ones in your recipe.

They're a convenient time-saver and work well as a substitute. When using canned yams, you'll want to drain them thoroughly and pat them dry before proceeding with your recipe.

Keep in mind that canned yams are often pre-sweetened, so you might need to adjust the sugar content in your recipe to avoid an overly sweet dish.

They'll still give you that delicious, comforting flavor you're looking for.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Candied Yams?

When considering side dishes to pair with candied yams, you've got plenty of delicious options. Here are some great choices:

• Roasted turkey or ham
• Green bean casserole
• Cranberry sauce
• Mashed potatoes
• Stuffing or dressing
• Brussels sprouts
• Dinner rolls

These classics complement the sweetness of candied yams beautifully.

You'll want to balance the flavors, so consider including both savory and tangy options.

Don't forget to add some green vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Rachel Simmons

Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.