Growing up in a household where the aroma of candied yams filled the air, especially around Thanksgiving, instilled in me a deep appreciation for this classic side dish. The sweet, tender yams, enveloped in a caramelized sauce, became a staple at our family gatherings. Not only is this recipe a Southern tradition, but it also offers a practical solution for busy holiday cooking. By preparing the yams on the stovetop, you free up oven space for other dishes, making the process more manageable. The best part? Using canned sweet potatoes cuts down significantly on time spent peeling and chopping, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Embracing the simplicity of the 3-ingredient recipe, I’ve found that you really can’t beat the ease and deliciousness of these candied yams. In just 30 minutes, you can have them ready on the table, impressing guests with their impeccable taste and presentation. This method not only conserves valuable kitchen time but also maintains the dish’s tender and sweet essence, making it a Southern delicacy that continues to warm hearts and homes. Whether it’s a quiet family dinner or a large holiday feast, these yams are sure to be a highlight, reminding us of the power of simple, well-crafted cuisine.
Family Favorite Candy Yam Recipe
Growing up, the kitchen was the heart of our home, especially during the holidays. My Mom’s candied yams became the centerpiece of every holiday meal, whether we were carving Turkey, slicing ham, or serving up roast beef. This recipe wasn’t just another side dish; it was a family favorite that made every dining experience incredible. The sweet potato casserole, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and brown sugar sweet potatoes, was a testament to the simplicity and beauty of Southern cooking.
A Versatile Holiday Classic
Thanksgiving without this dish was unimaginable. It found its place on the menu alongside corn pudding and broccoli cheese casserole, becoming a staple for any time of year and any gathering. What made my mother’s recipe stand out was its adaptability. Not too sweet? She’d adjust with roasted sweet potatoes and pears. Looking for a tart flavor? Cranberries would make their way into the mix, offering a delightful contrast.
Customization is Key
The beauty of this recipe lies in its easy recipe structure. With just three ingredients, it doesn’t take long to prepare, making it perfect for hosting a big meal. For those occasions that called for something more, like Easter, Mother’s Day, or Christmas, we knew we could make the dish extra special with additions like Bourbon, spicy pecans, and bacon.
The Day Before Magic
Preparation was always a breeze. Knowing we could prep and assemble the dish the day before baking freed up much-needed room in the oven. This was particularly helpful for more elaborate meals where hasselback sweet potatoes would also grace the table, their impressive presentation adding to the festive spirit.
Beyond the Holidays
This candied yam recipe wasn’t just a holiday hit; it was a year-round favorite for crowds of any size. Whether it was a simple family dinner or a large gathering, these yams were always a hit, proving that great flavors create lasting memories. The sweet, salty, spicy, and rich flavors harmonized in each bite, making every meal memorable.
Why you will love Candy Yams:
- You won’t find an easier recipe
- No need to peel sweet potatoes
- A thick, sweet sauce that tastes like caramel
- Make them in one pan for easy cleanup
Are Candied Yams and Sweet Potatoes the Same Thing?
Navigating the aisles of the grocery store around the holidays, one might notice orange vegetables labeled as yams or sweet potatoes and wonder about the difference. Despite common belief, these are indeed different root vegetables, each with its unique characteristics. Yams are typically grown in Asia, Africa, or South America and have dark, tough skin. In contrast, sweet potatoes, more prevalent in the US with North Carolina being the number one producer, boast a smooth, reddish skin.
The confusion often arises because candied “yams” in American cuisine are usually made with sweet potatoes, which are easier to find in our grocery stores. This substitution is primarily due to their flavor similarity, even though they differ in texture and appearance. When cooked, yams are dryer and starchier, whereas sweet potatoes offer a softer flesh and a sweeter flavor, making them ideal for the beloved candied yams recipe.
Understanding how to tell the difference requires a closer look at their skin and the knowledge of where they are grown. This distinction is crucial not just for culinary accuracy but also for achieving the desired outcome in recipes. While they can be substituted for one another in many dishes, the unique qualities of sweet potatoes make them the preferred choice for creating that perfect, sweet, and tender candied dish we all love during the holidays.
So, the next time you’re preparing for a festive meal and reach for those candied yams, remember that you’re likely using sweet potatoes. This small revelation does not diminish the dish’s place as a staple in Southern cuisine; rather, it enriches our understanding and appreciation of this holiday favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious cook, recognizing the subtle nuances between these two root vegetables can elevate your cooking and bring a deeper level of authenticity to your dishes.
Candied Yams Recipe Ingredients
- Canned Sweet potatoes (preferably not in heavy syrup; if that’s all available, cut back on brown sugar)
- Brown sugar (I prefer light brown sugar for a subtler sweetness, but you can opt for dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor; I do not recommend granulated sugar as it doesn’t caramelize as well)
- Butter (cut it into chunks so it melts faster)
How To Make Canned Yams In The Oven
Turning a simple recipe into a mouthwatering side dish can be as easy as knowing How to Cook Canned Yams on the Stove and then transforming that knowledge to oven-baked perfection. The process begins by mixing the ingredients thoroughly to ensure each slice of yam is beautifully coated. Once combined, you’ll place the yams into a 1-2 quart baking dish that has been generously sprayed with non-stick spray. This preparation step ensures that your yams will release easily, maintaining their succulent texture and appearance.
The oven is preheated to 350 degrees, a sweet spot that allows the yams to bake evenly, caramelizing the sugars without burning. Bake your dish for 40-50 minutes, and what emerges is a transformation of the humble canned yam into a dish that resonates with the warmth and comfort of Southern cooking. This method not only infuses the yams with a richer flavor but also presents a dish that’s visually appealing, ready to grace any table with its presence.
How to make candied yams
Starting the Sauce
Start the Sauce by choosing a large skillet and placing it over medium heat. Begin by letting the butter melt slowly, ensuring it spreads evenly across the skillet’s surface. Once the butter is liquefied, add the brown sugar, stirring consistently until the mixture begins to bubble. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for a rich, caramelized base that is essential for candied yams.
Incorporating Sweet Potato Liquid
After achieving a low boil with your butter and sugar mixture, it’s time to pour in the sweet potato liquid. This addition is key to helping the sauce thicken. Allow it to blend well with the sugar and butter, creating a velvety consistency that will coat the sweet potatoes evenly. The mixture should simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Adding the Sweet Potatoes
Now, gently add the sweet potatoes to the skillet, ensuring each piece is enveloped in the sauce. This stage is about patience and precision, as the goal is for the potatoes to become tender and well-infused with the sauce. Allow the dish to simmer for approximately 30 minutes, during which the sauce will darken and thicken even more, enriching the overall flavor profile of the candied yams.
Final Touches
As the cooking process nears its end, observe as the sauce transforms into a dark brown color, indicating the yams are perfectly candied and ready to be enjoyed. This final simmering phase is vital for achieving the desired consistency and depth of flavor, making the yams a perfect side dish for any special occasion or family dinner.
Variations of Southern Candied Yams
Exploring the customization of the classic Southern Candied Yams recipe can turn an already beloved dish into a personal favorite. One of the joys of cooking is the ability to experiment with popular variations that cater to your preference. For a start, adding a tablespoon of fresh juiced orange and a teaspoon of grated zest can infuse the sauce with a sweet citrus flavor, introducing a delightful tanginess that complements the yams’ natural sweetness.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch with their candied yams, sprinkle chopped roasted pecans or walnuts on top just before serving. This not only adds texture but also enriches the flavor profile of the dish, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s a simple addition that can make a significant impact on the overall taste and presentation of the dish.
Adding extra fall flavor is another way to enhance the traditional recipe. Spices like ground ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg can be mixed into the yams before baking, offering a warm and comforting aroma that is perfect for the season. These spices blend beautifully with the inherent sweetness of the yams, creating a dish that is rich in flavor and complexity.
Each of these variations brings its unique twist to the classic Southern Candied Yams, allowing you to tailor the dish to suit any occasion or palate. Whether you’re looking for a fresh take on a family tradition or simply wanting to add some new flavors to your holiday table, these adjustments are sure to bring a new level of enjoyment to this timeless dish.
What to Serve with Southern Candied Yams
Candied yams, with their sweet and comforting allure, are a staple of Southern cuisine, especially when served alongside savory dishes that balance their richness. When considering other sides to accompany this cherished dish, try corn pudding or roasted asparagus. These options not only complement the sweetness of the yams but also introduce a variety of textures and flavors to the meal, making it a fabulous feast. Ham, with its salty and smoky notes, pairs exceptionally well, creating a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and indulgent.
For those occasions when you’re serving a big crowd, such as during the holidays or potlucks, doubling or tripling the recipe ensures there’s plenty to go around. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and ease of preparation, allowing you to easily refrigerate or freeze any leftovers for another meal. This not only minimizes waste but also provides a delicious, ready-to-reheat option for busy days.
The key to a memorable Southern feast is in the pairing. By choosing dishes that complement the candied yams’ sweetness with their savory and earthy notes, you elevate the entire dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a grand holiday gathering, these yams, when served with the right accompaniments, promise a meal that’s both cohesive and delightfully diverse.
Tips And Tricks For How To Cook Canned Yams On The Stove
- Canned yams are already sweet, but to compliment their natural flavors, consider adding ingredients that can richen and deepen their taste.
- Be cautious not to overcook the yams, as they can quickly fall apart and become mushy. However, if you like your yams on the softer side, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Utilize the stovetop method detailed on the recipe card for a controlled cooking process that allows for better flavor infusion.
- Achieve a perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, fat, and acid by experimenting with increasing or decreasing certain ingredients. This method helps your favorite flavors emerge and enhances the overall dish.
- Remember, the key to a great dish is personal preference. Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to suit your taste buds.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of cooking canned yams on the stove is a simple yet rewarding endeavor, offering a delightful way to enrich your culinary repertoire. By embracing the flexibility of adjusting flavors, carefully monitoring the cooking process to prevent over-softening, and experimenting with a variety of complementary ingredients, you can elevate this humble dish into a gourmet experience. Whether served as a cozy family dinner side or a festive holiday treat, these tips and tricks ensure that your candied yams will be a cherished addition to any meal, leaving a lasting impression on your guests and satisfying even the most discerning palates.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use fresh yams instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh yams instead of canned. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh yams may take longer to cook than their canned counterparts.
Q2. How can I prevent my candied yams from becoming too mushy?
To prevent your candied yams from becoming too mushy, monitor the cooking time closely and avoid overcooking. Cooking them on a gentle simmer is key to maintaining their texture.
Q3. What can I add to candied yams to enhance their flavor?
Enhancing the flavor of candied yams can be as simple as adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. For a unique twist, consider incorporating a splash of orange juice or a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Q4. Are candied yams a dessert or a side dish?
Candied yams are traditionally served as a side dish, particularly in Southern cuisine. However, their sweet, rich flavor also allows them to be enjoyed as a dessert, especially when topped with marshmallows or pecans.
Q5. Can I make candied yams ahead of time for a holiday meal?
Yes, candied yams can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. This makes them a convenient option for holiday meals or large gatherings. Just be sure to store them properly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
