Candied Yams I

Candied Yams I Recipe - Delicious Flavors of Sweet Potatoes, Apples, and Raisins

Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Candied yams are a classic side dish that is often enjoyed during the holiday season. The combination of sweet yams, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness makes this dish a favorite among many.

History

The origins of candied yams can be traced back to African American cuisine, where sweet potatoes were a staple ingredient. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a variety of spices and sweeteners, creating the delicious dish we know today.

Ingredients

6 medium yams, boiled in their skins until tender (about 20 – 30 minutes)
0.33 cup raisins
1 tbsp brown sugar
3 tbsp sugar substitute
2 tsp cinnamon
0.5 tsp nutmeg
ground cloves to taste
0.33 cup low-calorie margarine
1 cup cold water

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Allow the yams to cool, then peel and slice them lengthwise.
Place the yam slices in a baking dish with a cover.
Sprinkle the raisins over the yams.
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, sugar substitute, and spices; then sprinkle the mixture over the yams.
Dot the yams with margarine and add water.
Cover the baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the cover and continue baking for another 15 – 20 minutes.

Variations

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different spices such as ginger or allspice for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to boil the yams until they are tender but still firm, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to suit your personal taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, consider using real butter instead of margarine.

Serving Suggestions

Candied yams are best served hot as a side dish to roasted meats or poultry. They pair well with savory dishes and can also be enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the yams before baking helps to ensure they are cooked through and tender. Baking them in the oven allows the flavors to meld together and creates a caramelized glaze on the yams.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have yams, you can use sweet potatoes as a substitute. You can also use real butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the candied yams ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the candied yams in a decorative serving dish garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a sprig of fresh herbs. You can also top them with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

Candied yams pair well with a variety of dishes, including roasted turkey, ham, or chicken. They also complement savory dishes such as green beans, stuffing, or mashed potatoes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover candied yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a baking dish and warm in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of candied yams contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of candied yams contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of candied yams contains approximately 5 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 nuts or dairy, depending on the specific recipe used.

Summary

Candied yams are a delicious and nutritious side dish that is relatively low in calories and fat. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Candied yams are a delicious and comforting side dish that is perfect for the holiday season. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Candied Yams. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, passed down through the generations. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on the faded handwriting that detailed the ingredients and instructions for making this delicious dish. I could almost smell the cinnamon and nutmeg just reading the recipe.

I had always loved spending time in the kitchen with my great-grandmother, watching as she effortlessly whipped up one delectable dish after another. She had a way of infusing each recipe with love and care, turning simple ingredients into mouthwatering meals that brought our family together around the dinner table. I knew that I had to learn how to make these Candied Yams for myself and carry on the tradition.

I remember asking my great-grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled warmly, telling me stories of how she had learned to make them from her own grandmother many years ago. She explained that Candied Yams were a staple dish in our family, passed down through the generations as a symbol of love and togetherness. I felt a deep connection to my ancestors as I listened to her tales, and I knew that I had to do justice to this cherished recipe.

With my great-grandmother's guidance, I set out to make the Candied Yams for the first time. I gathered the ingredients - sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla - and set to work peeling and slicing the potatoes. As I mixed the ingredients together and watched the steam rise from the pot, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through the ages, preserving a piece of my family's history with each spoonful.

The aroma of the Candied Yams filled the kitchen, drawing my family in with its sweet and spicy scent. As we sat down to dinner that evening, I watched as my loved ones took their first bite of the dish that I had made with my own hands. Their eyes lit up with delight as they savored the flavors, and I felt a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that I had brought joy to their hearts through my cooking.

Over the years, I continued to make the Candied Yams for special occasions and family gatherings, each time adding my own personal touch to the recipe. I experimented with different spices and techniques, always striving to perfect the dish and make it my own. And as I shared the recipe with my children and grandchildren, I passed on the stories and traditions that had been handed down to me, ensuring that the legacy of the Candied Yams would live on for generations to come.

As I look back on those moments in the kitchen with my great-grandmother, I am filled with gratitude for the precious memories and lessons that she imparted to me. Through her guidance and love, I learned not just how to make a delicious dish, but also how to honor my heritage and connect with my family through the shared experience of cooking. The Candied Yams will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the enduring bonds that tie us together as a family. And as I pass the recipe down to future generations, I know that the tradition will continue to thrive, bringing joy and warmth to all who taste its sweet and spicy goodness.