Candied Sweet Potatoes With Dates And Pecans
Sweet and savory candied sweet potatoes with dates and pecans create a comforting dish with warm spices, perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch slices, peel, and cut each into quarters.
- Saute potatoes in melted butter in a large, heavy skillet for 15 minutes over medium heat.
- Add brown sugar, water, brandy (or additional water), pumpkin pie spice, and salt; cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add chopped dates; recover and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer to a serving dish; stir in pecan pieces.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, just use extra water in place of brandy. To save time, you can prep the sweet potatoes a day ahead, storing them in water in the refrigerator. This dish can also be made with yams for a slightly different taste. Pairing this with dishes like Dropped Tea Cakes can create a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve candied sweet potatoes warm as a side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats or vegetarian dishes, enhancing the flavors of your meal. A light salad or some crusty bread can complement the sweetness. For dessert, consider serving with a slice of Honey Chocolate Cake for a satisfying finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the sweet potatoes in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Sweet Potatoes With Dates And Pecans contains roughly 1241 calories, with 14g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1170mg per serving (51% 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 nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Each nut will bring a different flavor and texture to the dish, so feel free to experiment! Just be sure to adjust the toasting time if using raw nuts to ensure they are flavorful and crunchy.
How do I know when the sweet potatoes are done cooking?
The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes of simmering after adding the liquids. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a mushy texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sweet potatoes and sauce a day in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet and add the pecans just before serving for that fresh crunch. This makes it a great option for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
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).