The Perfect Candied Yams Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight

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Candied yams are a beloved side dish that adds a sweet, caramelized touch to any meal. Whether you’re making them for Thanksgiving, a family gathering, or simply because you love the comforting combination of yams and sugar, this dish is a crowd favorite. In this article, we’ll dive into the perfect candied yams recipe, tips for getting that ideal caramelized finish, and why this dish deserves a spot on your table.

Why Candied Yams Are a Must-Try

Candied yams are more than just a sweet side dish; they offer a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The natural sweetness of the yams complements the buttery, sugary syrup that caramelizes during baking. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg brings warmth, making it a dish perfect for cooler seasons.

Ingredients for Candied Yams

To make the best candied yams recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavor-packed side dish.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large yams (or sweet potatoes)
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • Marshmallows (optional for topping)

How to Make Candied Yams: Step-by-Step Recipe

  1. Prepare the Yams
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel the yams and slice them into rounds or thick wedges. Arrange them in an even layer in a buttered baking dish.
  2. Make the Syrup
    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt. Stir until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved, forming a thick, syrupy mixture.
  3. Pour and Bake
    Pour the syrup evenly over the sliced yams, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the yams are tender. Baste the yams with the syrup halfway through cooking.
  4. Caramelize the Top
    For an extra indulgent finish, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the syrup to caramelize. If you’re adding marshmallows, scatter them on top during this step and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Tips for Making the Best Candied Yams

1. Choose the Right Yams
While some people use sweet potatoes, true yams have a starchier texture that works well for this dish. Choose firm yams with no soft spots for the best results.

2. Don’t Skip the Butter
The butter is essential for creating that rich, caramelized glaze that coats the yams. Unsalted butter is recommended to control the salt level in the dish.

3. Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or swap it out for maple syrup or honey. For an extra depth of flavor, you can also try using dark brown sugar.

4. Add Marshmallows
Marshmallows are optional, but they add a fluffy, gooey topping that contrasts beautifully with the rich yams. If you like a little extra sweetness and texture, this is a great addition.

Why Candied Yams Are the Ultimate Side Dish

Candied yams are a perfect side dish for many occasions, from holiday feasts to Sunday dinners. They pair wonderfully with savory dishes like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a simple roasted chicken. The sweet, buttery glaze provides a delightful contrast to savory entrees, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies every palate.