Candied Yams
Candied yams are a classic dish made from sweet potatoes (often referred to as "yams" in the U.S.) coated in a sweet syrup made of ingredients like brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and sometimes marshmallows. This dish is typically baked until tender, allowing the flavors to caramelize and meld.Candied yams are a popular side dish in Southern and African American cuisines, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Known for their rich, sweet flavor, they complement savory dishes and bring a comforting balance to festive meals.
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter, plus more for pan
- 1/2 cup (110 g.) packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 Tbsp. bourbon (optional)
- 1 (3") cinnamon stick
- Pinch of grated fresh nutmeg
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 5 medium yams (about 3 lb.)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°. Grease a medium baking dish with butter.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring butter, brown sugar, orange juice, bourbon (if using), cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and salt to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, bring to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. Discard cinnamon stick.
- Meanwhile, peel yams and slice into 1/2"-thick rounds. Layer in prepared dish. Pour syrup over and cover dish with foil.
- Bake yams 30 minutes, then uncover and continue to bake, basting every 15 minutes, until softened and fork-tender, 50 to 60 minutes more. Let cool slightly.
Nutrition
Calories: 308kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 3gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 11mgSodium: 35mgPotassium: 1440mgFiber: 7gSugar: 16gCalcium: 47mgIron: 1mg
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