Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes
Sweet and tender candied sweet potatoes with caramelized syrup, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and cut yams crosswise into 1/4 inch thick slices. Place in a large skillet.
- Combine the sugar, brown sugar, and nutmeg (optional). Sprinkle over sweet potatoes.
- Dot with the butter and add the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
- After about 20 minutes, check if the potatoes are fork tender. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes if needed.
- Remove cover and cook for another 10 minutes or until the syrup has thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, choose sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth. If you want a different twist, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon along with nutmeg. You can also use maple syrup instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness. Ensure you monitor the cooking time closely to avoid overly soft potatoes, as the goal is tender yet firm slices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes as a side dish for holiday meals or alongside savory dishes like roast chicken or ham. They also pair wonderfully with vegetarian recipes for a balanced meal. For a delightful twist, consider serving them with chopped pecans or marshmallows on top for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover candied sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 1143 calories, with 5g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 13g 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and the syrup mixture a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them in the skillet to warm up before serving. This can save time during busy meals, especially during the holidays.
What can I use instead of light brown sugar?
If you don't have light brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with regular granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or honey to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index option.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar by half and add a bit of orange juice for natural sweetness. Also, try using less butter or substituting it with a healthier fat like coconut oil, which offers a unique flavor and texture.
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).