How To Cook Candied Yams

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How To Cook Candied Yams

Delicious as Dessert, Perfect for Potlucks: How to Cook Candied Yams

Looking for a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than candied yams! This delectable dessert is a perfect addition to any potluck or holiday gathering. With a combination of sweetness, warmth, and a hint of spice, candied yams are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’re going to show you how to cook candied yams that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What You’ll Need:

  • 4 large yams
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Wash and peel the yams. Cut them into 1-inch thick slices.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Place the yam slices in a large baking dish. Pour the melted butter over the yams and sprinkle the brown sugar mixture on top.
  5. Drizzle the maple syrup and vanilla extract over the yams.
  6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
  7. Remove the foil and baste the yams with the syrup from the bottom of the dish.
  8. Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the top is caramelized.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

And voila! You have just cooked a batch of perfectly candied yams. The combination of the natural sweetness from the yams, the richness of the brown sugar and butter, and the warmth of the spices creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone asking for your recipe.

Don’t forget to serve your candied yams as a delightful dessert option during your next potluck or holiday gathering. These yams can complement a wide variety of main dishes and will surely be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

So, gather the ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your tastebuds will thank you!

Share your tips and tricks for making the perfect candied yams in the Cooking Techniques forum.
FAQ:
Can I use canned yams for making candied yams?
Yes, you can use canned yams for making candied yams. However, it is recommended to use fresh yams for better taste and texture. Canned yams may be softer and sweeter, so adjust the amount of sugar accordingly.
How do I select the best yams for making candied yams?
When selecting yams for candied yams, look for yams that are firm and smooth. Avoid yams that have soft spots, blemishes, or signs of mold. Choose yams that are similar in size for even cooking.
What is the best way to peel yams?
To peel yams, start by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt. Then, use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin. Make sure to remove all the brown outer skin to expose the bright orange flesh.
How do I cut yams for candied yams?
After peeling the yams, cut them into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You can cut them into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. Aim for a thickness of around 1/2 inch to 1 inch to achieve a tender texture.
Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes, you can make candied yams ahead of time. Prepare the yams as instructed, but do not bake them with the marshmallow topping. Allow the yams to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven and add the marshmallow topping before placing them back in the oven to melt and brown.
How can I reduce the sweetness level of candied yams?
If you prefer less sweetness in your candied yams, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Additionally, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness.
Can I make candied yams without using marshmallows?
Yes, you can still enjoy delicious candied yams without marshmallows. Instead, you can opt for a crunchy pecan or walnut topping, or simply sprinkle some cinnamon and nutmeg over the yams before baking.

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