Savory Candied Yams That Delight Every Palate

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Candied Yams have been a staple in many households, especially during festive occasions. This savory dish transforms simple sweet potatoes into a delightful treat, infused with the rich flavors of brown sugar, butter, and spices. Whether served as a side dish during Thanksgiving or enjoyed any time of the year, these Southern style candied yams are sure to please everyone at your table. Let’s dive into how to make this beloved dish!

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams

Candied yams are not only a delicious addition to your meal but also bring a comforting warmth that makes them a favorite. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

It’s an easy candied yams recipe that requires minimal preparation.
Perfectly complements savory dishes, making it an ideal sweet potato side dish for holidays.
The combination of brown sugar and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor profile.
Can easily be turned into a sweet potato casserole for a new twist.
Nutritious sweet potato recipes like these are packed with vitamins and fiber.
Great for meal prep, as they reheat beautifully and maintain their flavor.

Ingredients for Candied Yams

Gather these items:

3 pounds sweet potatoes
0.5 cup unsalted butter
0.75 cup packed light brown sugar
0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
0.5 teaspoon grated nutmeg

How to Make Candied Yams Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly butter a 9×13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish.
Step 2: Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into ½-inch-thick rounds. Arrange the slices evenly in the greased baking dish.
Step 3: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until it’s hot and bubbly. Remove it from the heat.
Step 4: Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the melted butter. Mix until fully combined and pour over the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the foil and stir the yams gently for even baking. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 7: Serve warm and enjoy the true comfort of homemade food!

Pro Tips for the Best Candied Yams

Keep these in mind:

Use medium-sized sweet potatoes for even cooking and sweetness.
Experiment with spices like pumpkin spice for a unique twist.
For added texture, consider topping with candied yams with marshmallows during the last few minutes of baking.

Best Ways to Serve Candied Yams

These sweetened yams can be served in various ways:

Pair with roasted meats for a hearty meal.
Serve alongside a sweet potato casserole for a comforting feast.
Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, making them the best candied yams for Thanksgiving.

How to Store and Reheat Candied Yams

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These yams can be reheated in the oven or microwave, retaining their delicious flavor and texture. This is a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comfort food throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Candied Yams

What’s the secret to perfect Candied Yams?

The secret lies in the balance of sweetness and spices. Use high-quality ingredients and ensure the sweet potatoes are cut evenly for consistent cooking. This enhances their flavor and texture, making your homemade candied yams irresistible.

Can I make Candied Yams ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and the syrup ahead of time. Assemble everything and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious traditional candied yams during busy holiday gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Candied Yams?

Ensure you don’t overcook the sweet potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy. Also, be careful not to skimp on the butter and sugar, as they are essential for achieving that caramelized flavor that defines caramelized sweet potatoes.

Variations of Candied Yams You Can Try

Here are some creative twists:

Top your yams with toasted pecans for a crunchy contrast.
Add orange zest for a citrusy flavor that complements the sweetness.
Incorporate different spices like ginger or allspice for diverse flavor profiles.