Candied Sweet Potatoes Or Carrots
Sweet and tender candied sweet potatoes or carrots coated in cinnamon, butter, and sugar, perfect as a comforting side dish for family gatherings or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and slice them lengthwise, then cut into French fry shapes.
- Wash the potatoes and drain them.
- Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the sugar and cook until dissolved.
- Add the sliced potatoes to the pan, placing them all in one direction.
- Sprinkle cinnamon over the top of the potatoes.
- Cover the pan and cook until you hear steam inside.
- Reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes.
- Use the syrup mixture to baste over the potatoes.
- Repeat the basting process often.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting brown sugar for white sugar. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. To enhance the cinnamon taste, add a pinch of nutmeg. Ensure the potatoes are cut evenly for uniform cooking, and don't rush the basting process; it’s crucial for flavor absorption. This method can also be applied to carrots, which are perfect for a sweeter twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these candied sweet potatoes or carrots as a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian spread. Consider serving alongside The Golden Girl'S Golden Macaroni And Cheese for a comforting feast, or as a sweet complement to a savory main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little water or butter to the pan to prevent sticking, and heat over low until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Sweet Potatoes Or Carrots contains roughly 779 calories, with 4g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sweeteners instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute honey or maple syrup for the white sugar. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the cooking time slightly, as they may not dissolve as quickly as sugar. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done?
The sweet potatoes are done cooking when they are fork-tender. You can test this by inserting a fork into the thickest part of a piece; if it goes in easily, they are ready. Cooking times may vary based on the size of your potato slices.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes or carrots in advance. Once cooked, allow them to cool and store in the refrigerator. To serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water or butter to keep them moist and flavorful.
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).