Candied Yams

Introduction

History

The origins of candied yams can be traced back to African American cuisine, where sweet potatoes were a staple ingredient. The dish has evolved over time to include ingredients such as brown sugar, butter, and spices, creating a rich and flavorful side dish that is loved by many.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to boil the yams until they are only half cooked before baking them. This will ensure that they are tender but not mushy.

- Basting the yams with the syrup while baking will help to keep them moist and flavorful.

- For a caramelized finish, broil the yams for a few minutes at the end of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Candied yams are best served as a side dish alongside roasted turkey, ham, or fried chicken. They also pair well with green beans, cornbread, and cranberry sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the yams before baking ensures that they are tender and fully cooked. Basting the yams with the syrup while baking helps to keep them moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use sweet potatoes instead of yams for a slightly different flavor.

- Substitute butter for margarine if desired.

- Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

Candied yams can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Simply cover the dish with foil and bake when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve candied yams in a decorative baking dish and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Candied yams pair well with savory dishes such as roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and creamy casseroles. They also complement sweet desserts like pumpkin pie or apple crisp.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover candied yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of candied yams contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of candied yams contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of candied yams contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of candied yams contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Candied yams are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

Candied yams may contain allergens such as dairy (butter) and nuts (if added as a topping).

Summary

Candied yams are a delicious and comforting side dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Candied yams are a classic side dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners. With a rich and sweet flavor, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for candied yams. It was a chilly autumn day, the leaves were falling from the trees and the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her incredible cooking skills.

As I entered her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of something baking in the oven. Margaret was bustling around, pulling out pots and pans and ingredients from her well-stocked pantry. I asked her what she was making, and she smiled mischievously before revealing her secret recipe for candied yams.

Margaret explained that candied yams were a traditional dish in her family, passed down from generation to generation. She had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a treasured family recipe, and Margaret was kind enough to share it with me.

I watched in awe as Margaret peeled and sliced the yams, then simmered them in a sweet syrup of butter, brown sugar, and spices. The kitchen filled with the heavenly scent of caramelizing sugar and warm spices, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As the yams baked in the oven, Margaret shared stories of her childhood and the memories she had of helping her grandmother in the kitchen. She spoke fondly of family gatherings and holiday feasts where the candied yams were always a crowd favorite. I could tell how much this recipe meant to her, and I felt honored that she was sharing it with me.

When the timer dinged, Margaret pulled the baking dish out of the oven and revealed the most beautiful, golden-brown candied yams I had ever seen. The yams were tender and sweet, with a hint of warmth from the spices. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of Margaret's labor.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back in time to a simpler era, where family recipes and traditions were cherished and passed down with love. The candied yams were everything I had hoped for and more - sweet, comforting, and utterly delicious.

From that day on, candied yams became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for special occasions, holidays, or simply when I needed a taste of nostalgia. Every time I cooked this recipe, I thought of Margaret and her grandmother, and the bond that food creates between friends and family.

Years have passed since that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, but the memory of learning her recipe for candied yams has stayed with me. It serves as a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to evoke memories and emotions, and to bring joy and comfort to those we share it with.

So whenever I make candied yams now, I do so with a grateful heart and a smile on my face, knowing that this simple dish holds a world of history and tradition within its humble ingredients. And I hope that one day, I can pass this recipe on to someone else, just as Margaret did for me.

Categories

| American Recipes | Side Dish Recipes | Thanksgiving Side Dishes | Yam Recipes |

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