Spicy Glazed Yams
Sweet and spicy glazed yams with caramelized brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg create a warm, flavorful side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil yams, covered, until almost done.
- Peel and slice the yams.
- Combine light corn syrup, light brown sugar, butter, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a 10-inch skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced yams to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer, basting occasionally, until the yams are completely done and glazed.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Spicy Glazed Yams, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can substitute the light corn syrup with maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. If yams are not available, sweet potatoes work well too. Make sure to slice the yams evenly for consistent cooking and glazing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spicy Glazed Yams as a delicious side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed alongside vegetarian recipes like Easy Spinach Artichoke Casserole. For a complete meal, consider adding a salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Spicy Glazed Yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Glazed Yams contains roughly 500 calories, with 2g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value). 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the yams and the glaze a day in advance. Simply boil and slice the yams, then store them in the glaze in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and simmer until warmed through. This method enhances the flavors and saves time on the day of serving.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
If you prefer not to use corn syrup, honey or agave syrup can be great alternatives. They will impart a different flavor but will still provide the necessary sweetness for the glaze. Adjust the quantity slightly as these syrups are typically sweeter than corn syrup.
How do I know when the yams are fully cooked?
The yams are fully cooked when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. After adding them to the skillet with the glaze, cover and simmer until they are soft throughout and coated in the sticky glaze. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness.
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).