Candied Yams Recipe: A Classic Holiday Side Dish
If you’re searching for a sweet and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with holiday meals, candied yams are the answer. This traditional Southern dish, with its tender yams coated in a buttery, sweet syrup, is a favorite for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. The recipe is incredibly simple, yet the results are absolutely delicious.
Candied yams are not to be confused with sweet potatoes, although the two are often used interchangeably in recipes. While both vegetables are delicious, true yams have a slightly different texture and flavor. Moreover, the caramelized brown sugar and butter combination makes this dish irresistible, with the perfect balance of sweetness. For more tips on how to make the best candied yams, you can refer to this helpful candied yams recipe guide.
What Are Candied Yams?
Candied yams are a Southern staple that transforms simple yams (or sweet potatoes) into a rich, dessert-like side dish. The yams are sliced and baked in a syrup made from butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and other spices. The result is a warm, sweet, and sticky dish that pairs perfectly with savory main courses like turkey, ham, or roasted chicken. Additionally, this dish is often topped with marshmallows, especially in Southern soul food traditions, adding a gooey, caramelized layer on top.
If you love sweet dishes like candied yams, you might also enjoy exploring some delicious dessert options like the perfect candied apples guide for more sweet inspirations.
Ingredients for Candied Yams
To make the best candied yams, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful, comforting dish:
- Yams or sweet potatoes: Peeled and sliced into rounds or wedges.
- Butter: Adds richness to the syrup.
- Brown sugar: Provides the sweetness that caramelizes during baking.
- Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract bring warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Optional marshmallows: For a sweet, gooey topping.
For those who prefer a twist on the classic, adding a handful of pecans or orange zest can elevate the flavor even further. In fact, these simple ingredients combine to create an unforgettable dish that’s both sweet and savory.
How to Make Candied Yams
Making candied yams is straightforward, but it’s essential to follow each step carefully for the best results. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the roaster Set your roaster to 350 °F( 175 °C)
- Prepare the yams: Peel and slice the yams into even rounds or wedges. Place them in a baking dish.
- Make the syrup: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture becomes a smooth syrup.
- Coat the yams: Pour the syrup over the sliced yams, ensuring they are well-coated. Toss the yams gently to spread the syrup evenly.
- Singe Cover the dish with antipode and singe for 30 minutes. subsequently, remove the antipode and singe for a fresh 15- 20 minutes until the yams are tender and the saccharinity is gamesome and caramelized.
- Optional topping: If you’re using marshmallows, sprinkle them on top during the last 5 minutes of baking and return the dish to the oven until they are golden and melty.
Pro Tip: To prevent the yams from becoming too soft, avoid overcooking them. You want them tender but not mushy. Additionally, use fresh yams for the best texture and flavor.
For more variations on traditional sweet dishes, you might want to explore the churro cheesecake recipe for a delightful dessert option.
Variations of Candied Yams
There are many ways to put your own spin on the classic candied yams recipe. Here are some popular variations to try:
- Candied Yams with Marshmallows
A Southern favorite, this version adds a sweet, gooey marshmallow topping. It’s especially popular at Thanksgiving dinners. For more detailed informations, you can follow this candied yams with marshmallows recipe. - Candied Yams with Pecans
Adding crunchy pecans gives the dish extra texture and a nutty flavor, balancing the sweetness of the yams. - Stovetop Candied Yams
If you’re short on time, this stovetop system delivers the same caramelized flavorwithout the need for incinerating.
Health Benefits of Yams
While sweetened yams are a rich and sweet dish, the yams themselves offer a variety of health benefits. Here’s why yams are a nutritious choice:
- High in fiber Yams are a good source of salutary fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar situations.
- Rich in vitamins: Yams contain high levels of vitamins A and C, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting skin health.
- Antioxidant properties: Yams are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your body from oxidative stress.
In addition, to make the dish slightly healthier, you can reducethe quantum of sugar or substitute some constituents with druthers like coconut oil painting or maple saccharinity.
Serving Suggestions
Candied yams are typically served as a side dish during holiday feasts, but they can complement any meal. Here are a few ideas on how to serve them:
- Holiday meals: Candied yams are a perfect match for roasted turkey, ham, or a hearty beef roast.
- Weeknight dinners: Serve candied yams with baked chicken or grilled pork chops for a comforting and filling meal.
- Potluck dish: These yams are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
Alternative Sweeteners for Healthier Candied Yams
If you’re looking to make candied yams a bit healthier, consider using alternative sweeteners in place of traditional brown sugar. Here are a few options:
- Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener brings a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with yams. Use about ¾ cup of maple syrup in place of the brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
- Honey: Honey provides a lighter, floral sweetness. When substituting, use ¾ cup honey for every cup of sugar. Be mindful to lower the baking temperature slightly, as honey browns more quickly than sugar.
- Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar has a subtle caramel flavor and a lower glycemic index, making it a popular choice for healthier cooking. It measures 1:1 with brown sugar and is a seamless substitute.
By experimenting with these alternative sweeteners, you can not only achieve a slightly healthier dish but also, at the same time, preserve the classic, comforting flavor of candied yams. Plus, this approach allows you to enjoy the traditional taste while also considering health-conscious choices.
Creative Topping Ideas for Candied Yams
While marshmallows are the classic topping, there are other ways to add a delicious finishing touch:
- Toasted Pecans or Walnuts: For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top. They add texture and a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the yams.
- Coconut Flakes: Unsweetened coconut flakes add a tropical twist and light crunch. Sprinkle them on top in the last few minutes of baking for a toasty flavor.
- Crumble Topping: Mix oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter for a quick streusel topping. Sprinkle it over the yams before baking for a dessert-like texture.
These toppings can give your candied yams a unique spin, making the dish stand out and adding layers of flavor and texture.
Making them Vegan
For those who follow a plant-based diet, it’s surprisingly easy to create a vegan version of candied yams without sacrificing any flavor. In fact, with just a few simple swaps, you can still achieve that rich, comforting taste while keeping the dish entirely vegan:
- Vegan Butter: Replace regular butter with a high-quality vegan butter. It will bring the same richness and help create a smooth, caramelized syrup.
- Maple Syrup or Agave: Use maple syrup or agave as a sweetener for a natural, vegan-friendly option. These alternatives enhance the yams’ sweetness without refined sugar.
- Dairy-Free Marshmallows: Look for dairy-free marshmallows if you’d like to add the classic gooey topping. Many stores carry vegan marshmallows, so you can enjoy the same texture and sweetness.
By making these substitutions, you can easily prepare a vegan version of candied yams that’s just as decadent and satisfying as the traditional dish.
FAQs About Candied Yams
Are yams and sweet potatoes the same?
No, yams and sweet potatoes are different. Yams have a starchier, drier texture, while sweet potatoes are softer and sweeter. They can be used interchangeably in utmost fashions
Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the yams and syrup ahead of time, then refrigerate the dish until you’re ready to bake. This makes it convenient for holiday meal prep.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover sweetened yams in an watertight vessel in the refrigerator for over to 4 days. Overheat them in the roaster or microwave oven before serving.
Can I freeze candied yams?
Yes, sweetened yams can be firmed for over to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?
Yes, sweet potatoes are a great alternative if you can’t find yams. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but they still make a delicious dish.
Storing and Reheating Candied Yams
Candied yams are an excellent make-ahead dish, and leftovers store well. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can indurate sweetened yams for over to 3 months. Be sure to let them cool fully before transferring them to a freezer-safe vessel.
- Reheating Reheat in the roaster at 350 °F( 175 °C) until warmed through. Add a splash of water or butter to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
Sweetened yams are a classic, indulgent side dish that’s perfect for leaves or any time you’re pining commodity sweetand comforting. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re a go-to dish for gatherings and family dinners. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, candied yams are sure to be a hit at your table.