Candied yams recipe is a staple in many Southern households, especially during the holiday season. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, the sweet, buttery, and spiced flavors of this dish always find their place at the table. Combining tender yams with rich caramelized syrup, this candied yams recipe is as comforting as it is delicious.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of making the perfect candied yams recipe, share tips on customization, and answer common questions about the dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this candied yams recipe will help you create an unforgettable dish.
But before we begin, let’s clear up a common confusion: yams vs. sweet potatoes. Despite the fact that grocery stores often use the terms interchangeably, yams and sweet potatoes are quite different. Yams have rough, brown skin and white, starchy flesh, while sweet potatoes have smoother skin and a rich, orange interior. Most “yams” sold in U.S. supermarkets are actually sweet potatoes.
Why This Candied Yams Recipe is a Holiday Favorite
There’s something comforting about the combination of sweet, spiced yams coated in buttery syrup. This candied yams recipe evokes memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. While it’s often associated with holidays, this candied yams recipe is versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round.
The dish’s charm lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients – yams, sugar, butter, and spices – you can create a side dish that complements savory meats and fresh vegetables. The contrast of sweet and savory flavors makes candied yams a perfect pairing for dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty beef roast.
Beyond its role as a traditional side dish, candied yams are highly customizable. Whether you prefer a recipe with a strong citrus note or one with a touch of nutty crunch, you can adapt the flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Candied Yams
To create the best candied yams, it’s important to use the right combination of ingredients. The magic happens when simple ingredients like yams and sugar combine with spices and butter to form a rich, caramelized syrup. Here’s what you’ll need:
Key Ingredients
- Yams or Sweet Potatoes: 2 pounds, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds. Be sure to choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes.
- Brown Sugar: ¾ cup. You can use either dark or light brown sugar, depending on your flavor preference. Dark brown sugar will give the dish a deeper molasses flavor, while light brown sugar offers a more subtle sweetness.
- White Sugar: 1 cup. This helps to create the caramelization process, contributing to the syrupy texture.
- Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons. This warm spice adds depth and enhances the natural sweetness of the yams.
- Nutmeg: 1 teaspoon. Nutmeg is essential for giving the dish its signature holiday spice flavor.
- Butter: 1 stick, melted. Butter adds richness to the syrup and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract: 2 tablespoons. Vanilla elevates the flavor, adding a comforting, sweet aroma.
- Orange Juice Concentrate (Optional): 4 tablespoons. This adds a citrusy twist, brightening up the dish and balancing the sweetness with a slight tang.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
- Pecans or Walnuts: Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Marshmallows: For a classic Southern casserole twist, you can top the yams with marshmallows and broil them until golden brown.
Pro Tips:
- When selecting your sweet potatoes, opt for smaller, uniform-sized potatoes. They’re easier to peel and slice, and they cook more evenly.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup. For those with a sweet tooth, feel free to add a little more.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Candied Yams Recipe
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these steps to create perfectly tender, sweet candied yams with a rich, buttery syrup.
1. Prepare the Yams
- Peel the yams or sweet potatoes and cut them into uniform ½-inch thick rounds. Uniformity ensures that they cook evenly.
- Rinse the sliced yams under cold water and pat them dry with a towel.
2. Create the Syrup
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. Stir well until everything is mixed.
- Pour the syrup mixture over the yams and toss gently to coat each slice.
3. Cooking on the Stove
- Transfer the coated yams to a large pot or Dutch oven. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- The yams should be fork-tender and the syrup should have thickened to a caramel-like consistency.
4. Thickening the Syrup
- After the yams have cooked and are tender, remove the lid and allow the syrup to reduce for an additional 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the syrup doesn’t burn.
- Once the syrup has thickened and coats the yams, remove the pot from the heat.
5. Baking Option (Optional)
- For a slightly different texture, you can bake the yams after they’ve been cooked on the stove. Transfer the yams and syrup to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. This step will give the yams a slightly caramelized finish.
Customizing Your Candied Yams Recipe
Candied yams are highly adaptable, and there are many ways to make them your own. Here are a few suggestions for customizing the dish:
1. Healthier Alternatives
- Sweeteners: If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap the brown sugar for honey or maple syrup. These natural sweeteners add depth of flavor and cut down on processed sugars.
- Butter Alternatives: For a lighter version, use coconut oil instead of butter. It adds a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.
2. Adding a Crunch
- Pecans or Walnuts: Adding nuts to your candied yams provides a wonderful contrast in texture. Toast the nuts before adding them to enhance their flavor.
- Crushed Graham Crackers or Granola: For an unexpected twist, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers or granola on top before serving.
3. Flavor Additions
- Citrus Zest: Brighten up the dish by adding a bit of orange zest or lemon zest to the syrup. The citrus helps balance the sweetness and adds complexity to the flavor profile.
- Ginger or Cloves: For a spicier kick, add a small amount of ground ginger or cloves. These spices complement the warmth of the cinnamon and nutmeg, making the dish more aromatic.
Serving Suggestions for Candied Yams
While candied yams are often served as a holiday side dish, they can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some serving suggestions to help you create a well-rounded meal:
Ideal Pairings
- Roasted Meats: Candied yams pair perfectly with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or beef roast. The sweetness of the yams contrasts beautifully with the savory, umami-rich flavors of the meats.
- Fresh Vegetables: Balance the richness of the yams with lighter, fresher vegetables like green beans, collard greens, or asparagus.
- Cornbread or Rolls: Serve candied yams alongside warm, buttery cornbread or soft dinner rolls for a comforting, Southern-inspired meal.
Dessert Pairings
If you’re serving candied yams as part of a larger meal, consider offering complementary desserts like sweet potato pie, pecan pie, or a light lemon tart.
Storing & Reheating Candied Yams
Candied yams are a great make-ahead dish, and they store well in the refrigerator for several days. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
How to Store Leftovers
- Transfer the cooled candied yams to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can You Freeze Candied Yams?
Yes, you can freeze candied yams for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw the yams in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making candied yams is relatively simple, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
1. Overcooking the Yams
Overcooked yams can become mushy and lose their shape. To avoid this, keep an eye on the yams during the cooking process and test for tenderness with a fork. They should be soft, but still hold their shape.
2. Burning the Syrup
The syrup can burn quickly if left unattended, especially during the reducing stage. Stir the mixture regularly and keep the heat at a low simmer to prevent the sugar from scorching.
3. Too Sweet or Not Sweet Enough
Everyone’s preference for sweetness is different. Taste the syrup as it cooks and adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If it’s too sweet, you can add a small amount of water or butter to balance the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
Yams are starchy tubers with rough, brown skin and white flesh. They are native to Africa and Asia and are rarely found in U.S. supermarkets. Sweet potatoes, often mislabeled as yams, have a smooth skin and vibrant orange flesh. Both can be used to make candied yams.
2. Do I need to parboil the yams before making candied yams?
No, parboiling is not necessary. Cooking the yams directly in the syrup allows them to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a richer, more flavorful dish.
3. Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes! Candied yams can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
4. Can I use canned yams for this recipe?
While fresh yams or sweet potatoes are preferred, you can use canned yams in a pinch. Drain the yams well before adding them to the syrup to avoid excess moisture.
5. How long do candied yams last in the fridge?
Candied yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently to enjoy them at their best.
Conclusion
Making candied yams from scratch is a rewarding and simple process. With just a few ingredients and some basic techniques, you can create a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday feast or as part of a weeknight dinner, candied yams are sure to delight your guests with their sweet, spiced flavor and tender texture.
Enjoy your journey into the world of candied yams – and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor profiles. This versatile dish is a guaranteed hit, no matter how you choose to customize it!