Candied yams are a beloved dish that many of us look forward to during the holidays. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your home as you prepare this tasty side dish. It’s not just the taste that makes candied yams special; it’s the comfort they bring, reminding us of warm family gatherings around the table. This recipe will guide you through creating a batch of perfectly sweet and buttery yams that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. So, let’s get ready to whip up some charming candied yams that will surely brighten any occasion, whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy weeknight dinner!
Why This Recipe Works
Candied yams are a quintessential holiday dish, combining rich flavors and comforting textures that elevate any meal. This recipe leverages the natural sweetness of yams while enhancing it with the warmth of spices and butter, creating a delightful side dish that complements holiday feasts perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or looking for a cozy treat to enjoy any time of year, these candied yams are sure to please. With their beautiful golden hue and mouthwatering aroma, every bite promises to transport you to a place of warmth and celebration. Plus, they are remarkably easy to prepare, making them a must-have in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 6 yams (3.5 pounds), peeled and sliced ⅓ inch thick
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
Preparing the Yams: Melting the Butter
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly and fragrant, setting the stage for the yams to soak up its rich flavor.
Coating the Yams: The Sweetening Process
Add the sliced yams to the skillet, stirring gently to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in melted butter. It’s essential to cover all the yams so they absorb that delicious buttery goodness.
Flavoring the Dish: Adding Sweetness and Spice
Next, stir in the brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved, infusing the yams with a deliciously sweet and spiced flavor. This step is crucial, as it builds that signature taste everyone loves in candied yams.
Cooking the Yams: The Slow Simmer
Cover the skillet and let the yams cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process will allow the yams to become tender and absorb all the wonderful flavors. Just imagine the sweet scent curling around your kitchen as they simmer away—so comforting!
Final Touch: Seasoning to Perfection
Once cooked, carefully add the Kosher salt and stir gently to distribute. The salt balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. It’s surprising how just a pinch of salt can elevate the taste of these yams.
Serving Suggestions
These candied yams pair wonderfully with roasted meats, holiday hams, or can even be enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat! When serving, you could sprinkle a few chopped nuts on top for an added crunch.
Tips for Success
- Ensure yams are cut evenly for uniform cooking. This way, all pieces will be tender at the same time.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even flavor distribution. Don’t leave them unattended for too long!
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on personal preference. Everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to make it your own.
Variations
Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture, or a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist. These simple tweaks can refresh the classic recipe. For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Storage Tips
Store leftover candied yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Trust me; they taste just as good reheated!
Pairing Ideas
Pair your candied yams with cornbread, green bean casserole, or a fresh cranberry sauce for a festive holiday experience. The combination of flavors will make your meal feel festive and complete.
FAQs
What are candied yams traditionally served with?
Candied yams are often served as a side dish during Thanksgiving meals, typically alongside turkey and stuffing.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be substituted for yams, offering a slightly different flavor, but still delicious.
How do I store leftover candied yams?
Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated on the stove or microwave.
Are candied yams gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze candied yams?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze candied yams for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Candied yams are not just a dish; they are a warm reminder of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Their sweet and spicy flavor profile makes them an endearing addition to any meal. Serve them at holiday dinners, potlucks, or simply enjoy them as a comfort food treat throughout the year. Embrace the joy of cooking and create memories with every bite!
Print
Candied Yams
These candied yams are a delightful blend of sweet and spiced flavors, perfect for holidays or as a cozy side dish. They’re easy to make and sure to impress.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 6 yams (3.5 pounds), peeled and sliced ⅓ inch thick
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
Instructions
- Melt unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat until bubbly.
- Add sliced yams and stir to coat with butter.
- Mix in brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla until dissolved.
- Cover and cook yams for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add Kosher salt and stir to combine before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Cut yams evenly for uniform cooking.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust sweetness to taste by modifying brown sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 30
