Candied Yams Recipe with sweet potatos

Candied yams are a beloved side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to any meal. This easy-to-follow candied yams recipe combines tender sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery brown sugar sauce, making it a perfect addition to your holiday feast. Whether you’re looking for the best candied yams recipe or a nostalgic taste of grandma’s kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight.

Origin of the Candied Yams Recipe:

Candied yams, often confused with sweet potatoes, are a staple in Southern cuisine, especially during Thanksgiving. The dish traces its roots back to African American culinary traditions, where yams were a common ingredient. Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and spices to create the sweet, caramelized version we enjoy today. This dish symbolizes comfort and tradition, bringing warmth and sweetness to holiday tables.

Candied Yams (Sweet potatos)

Recipe by SouhailCuisine: USADifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

277

kcal

This candied yams recipe features tender sweet potatoes cooked on the stove in a rich, buttery brown sugar sauce, making it the perfect side dish for any festive meal.

Ingredients

3 large sweet potatoes (about 1 1/2 pounds total)
1/2 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
8 tablespoons salted butter
1/4 cup water

Directions

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler. Slice them into 1/2-inch rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking.
Make the Sauce: In a large pot or deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potato slices into the pot. Pour in the water and stir to coat the sweet potatoes evenly with the sauce.
Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the sweet potatoes simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and are well-coated with the sauce.
Check for Tenderness: After 20 minutes, check the sweet potatoes for tenderness by piercing them with a fork. They should be soft but not falling apart.
Thicken the Sauce: Remove the lid and continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken and caramelize slightly.
Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the candied yams warm, spooning the sauce over the top.

Notes

Use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor.
You can substitute sweet potatoes with yams if preferred.
Add a pinch of ground cloves for an extra layer of spice.
For a vegan version, use plant-based butter.
This dish can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Additional Tips:

Par-cook the sweet potatoes by boiling them for 5 minutes before simmering to reduce cooking time.
Use a mandoline slicer for evenly sliced sweet potatoes.
Add a splash of orange juice to the sauce for a citrusy twist.
Top with mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a classic touch.
Stir the sauce occasionally while cooking to ensure even coating.
Garnish with chopped pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Candied yams are more than just a side dish; they are a celebration of tradition and flavor. This recipe for candied yams is simple yet delicious, making it a must-have for your holiday menu. With its rich, caramelized sauce and tender sweet potatoes, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Try this best candied yams recipe and bring a touch of Southern comfort to your table.

FAQ

What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

In the U.S., “yams” often refers to orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, which are commonly used in candied yam recipes. True yams are starchier and less sweet, but you can use either for this recipe based on your preference.

How can I prevent my candied yams from becoming too mushy?

To keep the yams from getting mushy, avoid overcooking them. Bake or simmer just until they’re fork-tender. Also, adding the sauce near the end of cooking can help retain their shape.

Can I make candied yams ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare candied yams a day in advance. Simply bake them as directed, then let them cool, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven before serving, adding a bit more sauce if needed to keep them moist.

For more recipes like this check our section about dinner recipes.

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