Dandy Candied Yams
Sweet and tangy candied yams with citrus and warm spices, perfect as a comforting side dish for holiday dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon of orange juice.
- Add brown sugar, mace, allspice, pureed coconut, and a dash of salt, then stir well until smooth.
- Slice the yams and place them in a baking pan.
- Pour the mixture over the yams and let sit for 3 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until bubbling and brown on top, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh yams instead of canned. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar. To enhance the tropical taste, substitute the pureed coconut with shredded coconut. Mace can be replaced with nutmeg, and allspice can be omitted if unavailable. For a touch of crunch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Dandy Candied Yams are delicious served as a side dish for holiday meals, especially with roasted turkey or ham. They pair beautifully with American recipes like cornbread or collard greens. For an extra festive touch, garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon. They also complement desserts, making them a delightful addition alongside Grandma Church's Wonderful Fudge.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the yams in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick reheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dandy Candied Yams contains roughly 250 calories, with 2g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (17% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1420mg per serving (62% 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 fresh yams instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh yams! Just peel, slice, and boil them until tender before proceeding with the recipe. Fresh yams will offer a more robust flavor and texture compared to canned. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through before baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also use maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a different but delicious sweetness. Ensure that the pureed coconut is dairy-free as well.
What can I serve with Dandy Candied Yams?
These yams are a perfect side dish for holiday meals, especially accompanied by roasted meats like turkey or ham. They also go well with vegetarian recipes such as stuffed peppers or a hearty salad. For dessert, consider serving them alongside Easy Friendship Cake for a complete meal experience.
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).