Orange Candied Yams
Sweet and tangy orange candied yams feature tender mandarin oranges in a rich syrup infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, perfect as a comforting side dish for holidays or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the water, sugar, and chopped oranges for 5 minutes.
- Add all remaining ingredients except cornstarch and water.
- Cook until butter is melted.
- Dissolve cornstarch in water.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce.
- Boil until the mixture is thick and syrupy, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Orange Candied Yams, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a handful of chopped pecans for crunch. If you want to reduce sweetness, substitute half of the sugar with a sugar alternative like agave syrup. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier melting, and adjust spices according to your taste preference. This dish pairs beautifully with Herbed Squash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Orange Candied Yams warm, garnished with additional chopped mandarin oranges or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. They make a delightful side dish for holiday meals, especially alongside roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast. Consider pairing them with Parfait Pie For Diabetics for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, gently warm the yams in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or orange juice to restore moisture. For best results, avoid microwaving, as it can make the yams mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Candied Yams contains roughly 404 calories, with 4g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g 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 fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin oranges?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh oranges! Just peel and segment them, then chop finely. Fresh oranges will provide a vibrant flavor, though you may need to adjust the sugar content since fresh fruit can be less sweet than canned options. Remember to zest the oranges for added citrus aroma.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. For a lighter option, try using coconut sugar or maple syrup. Each alternative will provide a slightly different flavor, so choose based on your preference.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Orange Candied Yams a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, let it cool, and store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. This makes it perfect for 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).