Southern Candied Yams: A Delicious Recipe for a Classic Side Dish

Southern Candied Yams: A Sweet Tradition

Southern Candied Yams are more than just a dish; they are a cherished tradition that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. This delightful recipe combines tender yams with a rich, sweet glaze that creates a mouthwatering experience, making it a staple on Southern tables, especially during holidays and family reunions. The history of Southern Candied Yams is deeply rooted in African American culture, where sweet potatoes were often used as a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness.

People love this dish not only for its irresistible sweetness and comforting texture but also for its convenience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a side dish that complements any meal, from Thanksgiving turkey to Sunday dinners. The combination of buttery goodness and warm spices makes Southern Candied Yams a favorite among both young and old. Join me as we explore this beloved recipe that has stood the test of time and continues to bring families together around the dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

1. Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Peel the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler. Be careful to remove only the skin and not too much of the flesh.
3. Once peeled, cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch thick slices. This will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the syrup.
4. Place the sliced sweet potatoes in a large bowl and set aside.

Making the Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, add the granulated sugar, water, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt to the saucepan.
3. Stir the mixture well until the sugar is completely dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. Allow the syrup to come to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to thicken the syrup slightly.

Cooking the Sweet Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large baking dish, arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in an even layer.
3. Pour the prepared syrup over the sweet potatoes, ensuring that all slices are well coated.
4. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the steam and help the sweet potatoes cook evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the sweet potatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the syrup.
7. Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes. This will allow the syrup to caramelize and the sweet potatoes to become tender.

Finishing Touches

1. After the total baking time of 1 hour, check the sweet potatoes for doneness. They should be fork-tender and coated in a thick, syrupy glaze.
2. If you like, you can add mini marshmallows on top of the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking. This will give them a delightful toasted flavor and a beautiful presentation.
3. To toast the marshmallows, simply sprinkle them evenly over the sweet potatoes and return the dish to the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.

Serving the Candied Yams

1. Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Using a large spoon, carefully scoop out the candied yams, making sure to include some of the syrup with each serving.
3. Transfer the candied yams to a serving platter or individual bowls.
4. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little more ground cinnamon on top before serving.
5. Enjoy your Southern candied yams as a delicious side dish for your holiday meals or any special occasion!

Storage Tips

1. If you have leftovers, allow the candied yams to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
2. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. For longer storage, you can freeze the candied yams. Place them in a freezer-safe container and they will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating

   

   Conclusion:

   If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the warmth and comfort of Southern cooking, then these Southern Candied Yams are an absolute must-try! The combination of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Not only are they incredibly delicious, but they also bring a sense of nostalgia and tradition to any meal, making them perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or even a cozy weeknight dinner.

   When serving these Southern Candied Yams, consider pairing them with classic Southern dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, or cornbread for a truly authentic experience. They also make a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas, complementing your turkey or ham beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add a twist to the recipe by incorporating ingredients like pecans for a crunchy texture, or a splash of orange juice for a citrusy zing. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can bring a new dimension to this beloved dish.

   I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of making Southern Candied Yams in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Once you take that first bite, I’m sure you’ll understand why this dish has become a staple in Southern cuisine.

   After you’ve made your Southern Candied Yams, I would love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the classic recipe, or did you try a fun variation? Share your thoughts and any tips you might have in the comments below. Your feedback not only helps me but also inspires others in our cooking community to try this delightful dish. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You won’t regret it, and I can’t wait to see how your Southern Candied Yams turn out!

   ---

   Southern Candied Yams: A Delicious Recipe for a Classic Side Dish

   Experience the warmth of Southern Candied Yams, featuring tender sweet potatoes baked in a luscious syrup of butter, sugar, and spices. This sweet and comforting dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more.

   Prep Time20 minutes

   Cook Time60 minutes

   Total Time80 minutes

   Category: Easy Desserts

   Yield: 8 servings

   Save This Recipe

   Ingredients

   • 4 large sweet potatoes (about 3 pounds)
   • 1 cup granulated sugar
   • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
   • 1 cup water
   • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
   • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1/4 teaspoon salt
   • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

   Instructions

   1. Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
   2. Peel the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler. Be careful to remove only the skin and not too much of the flesh.
   3. Once peeled, cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch thick slices. This will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the syrup.
   4. Place the sliced sweet potatoes in a large bowl and set aside.
   5. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
   6. Once the butter is melted, add the granulated sugar, water, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt to the saucepan.
   7. Stir the mixture well until the sugar is completely dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. Allow the syrup to come to a gentle boil.
   8. Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to thicken the syrup slightly.
   9. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   10. In a large baking dish, arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in an even layer.
   11. Pour the prepared syrup over the sweet potatoes, ensuring that all slices are well coated.
   12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the steam and help the sweet potatoes cook evenly.
   13. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
   14. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the sweet potatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the syrup.
   15. Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes. This will allow the syrup to caramelize and the sweet potatoes to become tender.
   16. After the total baking time of 1 hour, check the sweet potatoes for doneness. They should be fork-tender and coated in a thick, syrupy glaze.
   17. If you like, you can add mini marshmallows on top of the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of baking. This will give them a delightful toasted flavor and a beautiful presentation.
   18. To toast the marshmallows, simply sprinkle them evenly over the sweet potatoes and return the dish to the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
   19. Once the sweet potatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
   20. Using a large spoon, carefully scoop out the candied yams, making sure to include some of the syrup with each serving.
   21. Transfer the candied yams to a serving platter or individual bowls.
   22. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle a little more ground cinnamon on top before serving.
   23. Enjoy your Southern candied yams as a delicious side dish for your holiday meals or any special occasion!

   Notes

   • If you have leftovers, allow the candied yams to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
   • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
   • For longer storage, you can freeze the candied yams. Place them in a freezer-safe container and they will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.