Candied Yams
Candied yams are a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of yams with buttery richness and a hint of caramelized brown sugar. This comforting dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, appealing to those who love sweet, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a skillet over low heat.
- Blend in sugar and salt.
- Increase heat and bring to boiling.
- Add yams and cook over medium heat, turning yams several times.
- Cook for about 20 minutes or until yams are well glazed and thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your candied yams, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, substitute margarine with coconut oil or use maple syrup instead of brown sugar. For a vegan twist, ensure all ingredients are plant-based. Remember to slice the yams evenly for consistent cooking, ensuring they glaze perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Candied yams make a delightful side dish for holiday meals, especially during Thanksgiving. They pair beautifully with Baked Squash and can be complemented with roasted meats or a fresh salad. For an added touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or marshmallows on top before serving for extra texture and sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry, and stir gently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Yams contains roughly 476 calories, with 0g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare candied yams a day in advance. Simply cook them as directed, allow them to cool, and then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them gently on the stove or in the oven until heated through, ensuring they remain glazed and flavorful.
What type of yams should I use?
Use medium-sized orange-fleshed yams, often labeled as sweet potatoes in grocery stores. They are sweeter and have a creamier texture when cooked, making them ideal for this recipe. If unavailable, you can substitute with other varieties of sweet potatoes, but the taste may vary slightly.
Can I add other ingredients to my candied yams?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding chopped apples, raisins, or even a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist. You can also mix in spices like ginger or cloves to enhance the flavor. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients may alter the cooking time slightly.
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).