How to Cook Candied Yams? Easy Steps for Perfect Sweetness

Are you ready to turn simple sweet potatoes into a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with rich, caramelized flavor? Learning how to cook candied yams is easier than you think, and once you master this classic recipe, your family and friends will keep asking for seconds.

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or just craving a sweet and comforting side, this guide will show you step-by-step how to create perfectly tender yams coated in a luscious buttery glaze. Keep reading, and you’ll discover the secrets to making candied yams that taste like they came straight from a Southern kitchen!

Ingredients For Candied Yams

Choose firm sweet potatoes with smooth skin. Orange-fleshed yams are best for sweetness and texture. Avoid potatoes with bruises or soft spots.

Use essential spices like cinnamon and ginger. These add warmth and depth to the dish. Dark brown sugar gives a rich, molasses-like sweetness.

Butter is key for a creamy texture and rich flavor. Vanilla extract or a pinch of salt can enhance the taste even more. These flavor enhancers balance the sweetness perfectly.

Preparing Sweet Potatoes

Start by peeling the sweet potatoes carefully using a vegetable peeler. Cut them into even slices, about 1/2 inch thick, so they cook evenly. Uniform slices help the yams soften at the same rate and absorb the flavors better.

For par-cooking, place the sliced yams in boiling water for about 5 to 7 minutes. This softens them slightly without cooking fully. Drain well before placing in your baking dish. Par-cooking helps reduce the total baking time and ensures the yams become tender inside.

Making The Glaze

Start by melting butter in a small bowl. Stir in brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the sweet and rich base of the glaze.

Next, pour in a splash of vanilla extract. This adds a lovely aroma and depth to the flavor.

Sprinkle in warm spices like cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. These spices bring out the natural sweetness of the yams.

Mix everything well. The glaze should be thick but pourable. It will coat the yams beautifully during baking.

Baking Process

Place the sliced yams evenly in a baking dish. Avoid crowding them to ensure even cooking. Arrange in a single layer for best results.

Cover the dish with foil to keep the yams moist. This traps steam, making the yams soft and tender. Keep it covered for most of the baking time.

Remove the foil near the end to allow caramelization. This helps the sugar glaze turn golden and sticky. Watch carefully so it does not burn.

Tips For Perfect Texture

Cut yams into even pieces for uniform cooking. Use a baking dish that fits them without crowding. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in. This prevents drying out and helps yams cook evenly. Check tenderness by gently poking with a fork. The yams should be soft but not mushy. Test several pieces to be sure all are done.

To get a sticky, sweet coating, remove the foil near the end of baking. Stir the yams gently to spread the sauce. Bake uncovered for 10-15 more minutes until the glaze thickens. Watch closely to avoid burning the sugar. The sauce should be shiny and cling to the yams.

Variations And Serving Ideas

Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a nice crunch to candied yams. Toast them lightly before mixing for extra flavor. Mini marshmallows create a soft, sweet topping that melts beautifully. Spread marshmallows over yams near the end of baking. They brown quickly, so watch carefully.

Pair candied yams with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or grilled chicken. The sweet taste of yams balances savory main dishes well. For a vegetarian meal, serve yams alongside stuffed bell peppers or green bean casserole. These combinations make meals colorful and tasty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Boil Candied Yams?

Yes, boil candied yams briefly to soften them before baking. This ensures tenderness and enhances flavor absorption.

What Temperature Do You Cook Candied Yams At In The Oven?

Cook candied yams in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for 30-40 minutes, then uncover to caramelize.

What Is The Best Cooking Method For Yams?

The best method for cooking yams is baking. Peel, slice, coat with butter and spices, then bake covered at 350°F. Uncover to caramelize the glaze until tender and flavorful.

Do You Bake Candied Yams Covered Or Uncovered?

Bake candied yams covered with foil first to retain moisture and tenderness. Remove foil near the end to caramelize the glaze.

Conclusion

Cooking candied yams is simple and rewarding. Use fresh sweet potatoes and cut them evenly. Mix butter, brown sugar, and spices for a sweet glaze. Bake covered first, then uncover to caramelize the sauce. The result is tender, flavorful yams with a rich glaze.

Serve warm as a perfect side dish. This classic recipe brings comfort and sweetness to any meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing this tasty treat with family and friends.