Southern Yam Casserole
A comforting Southern yam casserole combining sweet yams with tart apple, dates, and a hint of lemon flavoring. Topped with walnuts and brown sugar, then baked to perfection, this dish offers a delightful mix of sweet and nutty flavors, perfect as a side for family gatherings or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 (1 lb.) cans yams drained or 4 medium yams cooked, peeled and halved ⓘ
- 1 medium apple pared, cored and sliced ⓘ
- 1/2 cup quartered dates ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon Kitchen-Klatter lemon flavoring ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
Instructions
- Arrange yams, apple, and dates in a greased, shallow, 1 1/2-quart casserole.
- Sprinkle with lemon juice, lemon flavoring, nutmeg, walnuts, and brown sugar.
- Dot with butter or margarine.
- Bake in a 350°F (moderate) oven for 20 to 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using fresh spices instead of pre-ground ones for the nutmeg. If you don't have lemon flavoring, a bit more lemon juice can suffice. You can also substitute walnuts with pecans for a different texture. For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or even a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southern Yam Casserole as a delightful side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or vegetarian recipes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For added richness, a dollop of whipped cream can be served on the side for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring it retains its original texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Yam Casserole contains roughly 290 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 yams instead of canned?
Yes, using fresh yams is a great option. You'll need to cook, peel, and halve about 4 medium yams before using them in the recipe. This adds a fresh flavor and texture to the casserole.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar with a little molasses mixed in, or even coconut sugar for a more natural alternative. This will help maintain the sweetness and caramel notes in the dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if reheating directly from the fridge.
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).