Country Candied Yams
Sweet and comforting candied yams with warm spices, perfect as a holiday side dish or cozy family favorite, featuring caramelized flavors and aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place water, yams, sugar, lemon extract, salt, vanilla extract, butter, and spices in a pan.
- Cover and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the yams are tender and the liquid thickens.
- Pour the cooked yams into a casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of butter to the mixture before boiling. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by half and substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Adding a pinch of ginger or cloves can also enhance the spice profile. For a unique twist, experiment with a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy note.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Country Candied Yams as a delightful side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or ham, and make a sweet addition to a Southern-style feast. For dessert, consider serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat that echoes the warmth of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the yams in a baking dish and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can add a splash of water if they seem dry during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Candied Yams contains roughly 457 calories, with 2g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 505mg 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 sweet potatoes instead of yams?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for yams in this recipe. They will provide a slightly different flavor and texture but will still yield delicious results. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time if necessary, as sweet potatoes may cook faster.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make Country Candied Yams vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan margarine. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly, making this a simple adjustment for those following a plant-based diet.
What can I do if I don't have lemon extract?
If you don't have lemon extract on hand, you can use an equal amount of fresh lemon juice as a substitute. This will provide the necessary acidity and brightness to the dish. Alternatively, a splash of orange extract can offer a different but delightful citrus flavor.
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).