Candied Sweet Potatoes A La Orange
Sweet potatoes glazed with orange and cinnamon create a fragrant, caramelized side dish perfect for holiday dinners or cozy gatherings, offering a balance of sweetness and citrus zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Set peeled sweet potatoes in a baking pan.
- Combine all ingredients and pour over the potatoes.
- Add sliced orange cut into half-moons.
- Bake at 350°F, basting frequently, until the syrup caramelizes and potatoes are tender, about 1.5 hours.
- Remove the orange slices after about three-fourths of an hour.
- Serve with candied orange slices on top as a garnish.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using maple syrup instead of light corn syrup for a richer flavor. If you prefer a citrus kick, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the orange juice mixture. Remember to baste the sweet potatoes frequently to ensure even caramelization. Also, peeling the sweet potatoes can be optional as the skin is nutritious and adds texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the candied sweet potatoes alongside roasted meats or as a vibrant addition to holiday feasts. They pair beautifully with glazed ham or turkey, making them a perfect side dish for family gatherings. For a festive touch, garnish with the candied orange slices and consider serving with a refreshing 'Hit Of The Party' Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the sweet potatoes in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick reheating option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Sweet Potatoes A La Orange contains roughly 912 calories, with 15g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (206% of the Daily Value), iron (111% of the Daily Value), and calcium (81% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes in this recipe?
While sweet potatoes are ideal for this dish due to their natural sweetness and texture, you could experiment with regular potatoes. However, the flavor profile will change significantly, and they may not caramelize as well as sweet potatoes.
How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
This recipe is already vegan since it doesn't include any animal products. Just ensure that the orange juice and corn syrup you use are vegan-certified, and you're all set to enjoy this delicious dish.
What can I do with leftover syrup?
Leftover syrup can be used as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or drizzled over yogurt or oatmeal for extra sweetness. You could also use it to sweeten beverages or as a base for a homemade salad dressing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).