Sweet Delights: Irresistible Recipes for Candied Yams

Embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the harmonious fusion of flavors and traditions with the delectable creation known as candied yams. With their white flesh and irresistible sweetness, yams take center stage in this Southern side dish, complemented by a stick of butter and a carefully crafted sugar mixture. As these yams, resembling sweet potato rounds, are prepared and lovingly placed in a medium baking dish, they become the embodiment of classic comfort and homey indulgence.

These beloved recipes for candy yams, often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings, captures the essence of Southern hospitality and culinary creativity. From the perfect blend of ingredients to the preparation in a butter-sugar mixture, every step in crafting these candied yams results in a taste that’s both a personal preference and a timeless tradition.

Sink your teeth into the sumptuous and satisfying world of sweet delights with our irresistible recipes for candied yams. Every bite of these delicious delicacies will make your taste buds dance.

From the history behind this beloved dish to step-by-step instructions on achieving perfection, we’ve got you covered.

With your apron, prepare to enjoy a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into the tantalizing world of candied yams!

What are Candied Yams?

Candied yams are a delicious and irresistible sweet treat perfect for special occasions or holiday meals. Made with sweet potatoes, these yams are cooked in a brown sugar glaze that adds a depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness.

Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into thick rounds or cubes to make candied yams. In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter and mix it with brown sugar, maple syrup, orange juice, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This mixture is poured over the sweet potatoes in a casserole or baking dish.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender. Remove the foil and top the yams with mini marshmallows for a gooey and decadent finish. Place the dish back in the oven for a few minutes until the marshmallows brown.

Candied yams are a perfect side dish that pairs well with various savory dishes. The sweet flavors of the yams, the brown sugar glaze, and the melted marshmallows create a mouthwatering dish that will impress. Add candied yams to your next family dinner or special occasion for a sweet and delicious addition to the meal.

Benefits of Eating Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious, but they also offer a range of health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients and fiber, adding sweet potatoes to your diet can significantly enhance your overall well-being. Here are some benefits of eating sweet potatoes:

1. Nutrient-rich: Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins A, C, and B6, providing essential antioxidants that support a robust immune system and promote healthy skin.

2. Fiber boost: Sweet potatoes are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion, prevents constipation, and helps maintain a healthy weight.

3. Managing blood sugar: Sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index than ordinary potatoes despite their sweetness. They raise blood sugar slowly, making them a suitable choice for diabetics and blood sugar watchers.

4. Heart health: Sweet potatoes are low in fat and sodium while rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure. The fiber and antioxidants in them lessen heart disease risk.

5. Eye health: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene, which can prevent macular degeneration.

Incorporating sweet potatoes into your meals can add flavor and various health benefits. Try roasted, mashed, or as a healthy alternative to regular fries.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Are you ready to dive into the world of delicious candied yams? Let’s start by discussing the preparation and cooking time required for this mouthwatering dish.

The prep time typically involves peeling and cutting the yams, which can take 15-20 minutes, depending on your chopping skills. Cooking time is usually between 80 – 90 minutes, during which the yams are cooked in a sweet glaze until they become tender and caramelized.

And if you have some extra patience, allowing them to cool down for a few minutes before serving will enhance their flavor even more.

You can expect to spend around an hour or so from start to finish, but trust me when I say these candied yams are worth every minute of your time. This recipe will give you a generous yield to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Prep Time

The prep time for this recipe is only 15 minutes. When it comes to cooking techniques, time management is critical.

To start, gather all your ingredients: yams, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and marshmallows.

Begin by peeling and slicing the yams into thick rounds or cubes. This ensures even cooking and a deliciously tender result.

Next, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat and add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.

Now it’s time to coat the yams with this delectable glaze! Toss them gently until evenly coated before transferring them to a baking dish.

And just like that, you’re ready for the next step: cook time!

Cook Time

Now it’s time to pop the baking dish in the oven and let those yams cook perfectly! Cooking techniques play a crucial role in bringing out the rich flavors of candied yams. The key is to balance soft, tender yams and a caramelized, syrupy glaze. Cooking time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

You can modify the recipe by adjusting the cooking time and temperature to achieve this. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture with a lighter glaze, bake the yams at 375°F for around 45 minutes. For a melt-in-your-mouth experience with thicker ice, lower the temperature to 325°F and allow them to cook for about an hour. Remember to baste them occasionally during cooking to ensure even coating.

Once they’re done, set/excellent time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.

Set/Cool Time (if applicable)

Once they’re done baking, let the yams cool for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.

Set time is essential in any recipe, allowing the dish to reach its full potential. The sweetness of the candied yams intensifies during this cooling period, making them even more irresistible.

While waiting, you can take this opportunity to prepare other meal elements or relax and enjoy the tantalizing aroma wafting from your kitchen.

Recipe variations also play a role in set time, as different ingredients and techniques may require longer or shorter cooling periods. Whether you prefer a classic recipe or add your twist with spices or toppings, give your candied yams enough time to cool down and develop their delectable flavors.

Total Time

The total time for this recipe will depend on how long the yams need to cool and how much preparation is required for other meal elements. Cooking techniques and regional variations can also affect the time it takes to make candied yams. The estimated total time for this recipe is 2 hours.

In some regions, candied yams are traditionally baked in the oven; in others, they are cooked on the stovetop or grilled. Each method has its own set of instructions and cooking times.

Regardless of the technique used, making candied yams is a labor of love requiring patience and attention to detail. The flavors develop over time as the ingredients meld together, so it’s worth the extra time to let them simmer and cook down slowly until they reach their peak deliciousness.

Ingredients and Variations

Ingredients:

• Four large yams or sweet potatoes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• One teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Variations:

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the sauce mixture for added crunch and flavor. Sprinkle some nuts on top before baking.
• Citrus Infusion: Add a splash of orange juice and grated orange zest to the sauce for a tangy and citrusy twist.
• Maple Glaze: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a rich and slightly smoky flavor profile.
• Spiced Delight: Experiment with spices like ginger, allspice, or cloves to create a more complex flavor.
• Healthier Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and reduce the amount of sugar for a slightly healthier version.
• Marshmallow-Free: Skip the marshmallows and create a caramelized candied yam dish without the gooey topping.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce for a savory twist on the classic sweet dish.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, including the marshmallows, are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Essential Equipment/Tools Needed

• Large Pot: For boiling the yam slices until they are slightly tender.
• Baking Dish: To assemble and bake the candied yams in the oven.
• Saucepan: For melting the butter and preparing the sauce mixture.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To mix and stir the sauce ingredients.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For peeling and slicing the yams.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients.
• Aluminum Foil: For covering the baking dish during baking.
• Oven: To bake the candied yams to perfection.
• Optional: Oven Mitts or Potholders: To handle the hot baking dish.
• Optional: Mixing Bowl: Toss the yam slices with the sauce before assembling them in the baking dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Recipes For Candy Yams

Step 1. Preparing the Yam Slices:

• Wash and peel the yams or sweet potatoes.
• Cut them into round or oval slices about 1/2 inch thick. Try to make them uniform for even cooking.

Step 2. Par-Cooking the Yams:

• Place the yam slices in a large pot and cover them with water.
• Bring the water to a boil and cook the yams for about 10 minutes or until they are slightly tender. The goal is to cook them, not wholly or partially.

Step 3. Making the Sauce:

Over medium heat, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan.

• Mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Cook and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the flavors are well combined. This will create a flavorful sauce for the yams.

Step 4. Coating the Yams:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the partially cooked yam slices in a baking dish.

Step 5. Pouring the Sauce:

• Pour the prepared sauce over the yams and evenly coat each slice. The sauce will caramelize as the yams bake.

Step 6. Baking the Candied Yams:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help steam the yams and prevent them from drying out.
• Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven.

Step 7. Adding Marshmallows (Optional):

• Take the foil off in the final 10 to 15 minutes of cooking.
• Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top of the yams. The oven’s heat will cause them to melt and turn golden brown.

Step 8. Finishing Touch:

• Once the yams are soft and the marshmallows are toasted, take the baking dish out of the oven.

Step 9. Serving the Candied Yams:

• Allow the candied yams to cool slightly before serving. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Step 10. Enjoy:

• Serve the candied yams as a delicious side dish with your meal, especially during festive occasions or family gatherings.

These step-by-step instructions will guide you through preparing and cooking flavorful candied yams that will surely be a hit at the table.

Expert Tips for Perfect Candied Yams

To enhance the flavor of your yams, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dish. These expert tips will help you achieve perfect results every time:

• Cook the yams until they are tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking can result in mushy yams.
• Boil or steam the yams instead of baking them for a quicker cooking time and more control over doneness.
• If you prefer a caramelized glaze, broil the candied yams for a few minutes at the end of cooking.

Additionally, consider these tips for perfect candied yams:

• Use real butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.
• The rich flavor of brown sugar enhances the sauce.
• Add some vanilla extract for an additional flavor dimension.

By following these expert tips, your candied yams will be delicious.

Now let’s look at the nutrition facts (per serving){table} to track what we’re indulging in without compromising taste.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Take a moment to review the nutrition facts per serving so that you can make informed choices about your indulgence. Here is the breakdown of the nutrition facts for our delectable candied yams:

Now that you know the nutritional information, let’s discuss flavor variations and health benefits. When it comes to flavor, you can add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the warmth and richness of the dish. As for health benefits, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients support eye health, boost the immune system and aid digestion.

With a better understanding of your indulgence’s nutrition facts, flavor variations, and health benefits, let’s move on to some recipe FAQs without missing a beat!

Recipe FAQs

What are some recipes for candy yams using fresh sweet potatoes?

Explore recipes like buttery brown sugar glaze or maple-orange roasted versions for delightful candy yams using fresh sweet potatoes.

Could you share a homemade candied yams recipe?

Sure! Create a glaze with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Coat sweet potato slices, bake until tender, then broil with marshmallows for a homemade candied yams recipe.

How can I make the best-candied yams from scratch?

For the best-candied yams, slice fresh sweet potatoes, coat in melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, bake until tender and finish by broiling with marshmallows for perfection.

What’s the process for making candy yams with a sweet candied yams recipe?

To make candy yams, slice sweet potatoes, coat with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, bake until tender, and top with marshmallows before broiling for sweetness.

Can you provide a recipe for candied yams using fresh sweet potatoes?

Certainly! Slice sweet potatoes, create a glaze with melted butter, brown sugar, and spices, coat the slices, bake until tender, and broil with marshmallows for delicious candied yams.

What’s the best way to make oven-baked candied yams at home?

The optimal way to make oven-baked candied yams involves slicing sweet potatoes, coating them in a buttery brown sugar glaze, baking them until tender, and broiling them with marshmallows for a delightful finish.

How do I create a delicious recipe for candied yams or sweet potatoes?

Craft a delicious candied yams recipe by coating sweet potato slices in a buttery brown sugar glaze, baking until tender, and adding marshmallows before broiling to perfection.

Could you guide me in making sweet potato candy yams using a tried-and-true recipe?

Of course! For tried-and-true sweet potato candy yams, coat slices with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, bake until tender, and broil with marshmallows for a delightful outcome.

What’s the secret to making perfect sweet candy yams from scratch?

The secret to perfect sweet candy yams is precise slicing, a balanced buttery glaze, careful baking until tender, and a golden finish by broiling marshmallows.

Can you recommend a recipe for candied yams that yields a glazed finish in the oven?

Certainly! To achieve a glazed finish, coat sweet potato slices in a buttery brown sugar glaze, bake until tender, and broil with marshmallows on top for a caramelized effect in your candied yams.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve unlocked the secret to creating mouthwatering candied yams that will have everyone begging for seconds.

With just the right amount of sweetness and a dash of love, these sweet delights will become a family favorite.

So gather your loved ones, grab a fork, and prepare to indulge in a taste sensation that will transport you to culinary bliss.

Trust me; you’ll be hooked once you try these irresistible recipes.

Get ready for a journey of flavor that will leave you craving more!