Savor the Sweetness: Southern Candied Yams

 Savor the Sweetness: Southern Candied Yams

Southern Candied Yams are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal. This beloved dish, often gracing holiday tables and Sunday dinners, combines the natural richness of sweet potatoes with a delightful blend of spices and sugars, creating a syrupy, caramelized perfection. Here’s how you can make this soul-soothing dish at home.

Ingredients:

4-5 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½ inch thick rounds

1 1/2 cups of  water

1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)

½ cup granulated sugar

4 Tbsp plant butter

1 Tbsp cornstarch

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp nutmeg

A splash of orange juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Begin by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes into ½ inch thick rounds. Toss the sweet potatoes in cornstarch to coat them evenly. This helps thicken the sauce and gives the yams a beautifully glazed finish.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a 5-quart pot, add the coated sweet potatoes along with water, brown sugar, granulated sugar, plant butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of orange juice. This combination of ingredients creates the rich, sweet syrup that will candy the yams.

3. Cook the Yams: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the sweet potatoes cook for 25 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors and start to soften.

4. Thicken the Syrup: After 25 minutes, remove the lid and stir the sweet potatoes to coat them evenly with the syrup. Continue to cook uncovered for an additional 8 minutes. This will allow the syrup to thicken and create a luscious coating on the yams. You’ll know they’re ready when the syrup is thick and the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.

5. Cool and Serve: Once the yams are cooked to perfection, remove the pot from heat and let the dish cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period helps the syrup set slightly, making it easier to serve. Dish out the candied yams while they’re still warm to enjoy their full, rich flavor.

Why You'll Love Southern Candied Yams:

Southern Candied Yams are more than just a side dish—they're a celebration of Southern culinary tradition. The blend of brown and granulated sugars creates a perfect balance of sweetness, while the spices add warmth and depth to the dish. The splash of orange juice adds a subtle hint of citrus that brightens the flavor, making each bite a delight.

This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any time you crave a comforting, sweet side. Its simplicity and the use of natural, wholesome ingredients make it an easy addition to your cooking repertoire. Plus, the rich, caramelized syrup and tender sweet potatoes are sure to impress guests and family alike.

Serving Suggestions:

• Holiday Feasts: Southern Candied Yams are a must-have for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, pairing perfectly with other traditional dishes like roasted vegetables, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

• Sunday Dinners: Serve these yams alongside your favorite roasted or fried protein for a hearty, satisfying meal.

• Potlucks and Gatherings: This dish travels well and can be reheated easily, making it an excellent choice for potlucks and family gatherings.

Tips for Success:

• Uniform Slices: Ensure that your sweet potato slices are uniform in thickness to cook evenly.

• Watch the Syrup: Keep an eye on the syrup as it cooks to avoid burning or over-thickening.

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Add a pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicier kick, or a touch more orange juice for added brightness.

• Slow Cooker Friendly Recipe: Place all ingredients in the slow cooker set to low for 3 hours. Stir the yams half way through cooking time.

Southern Candied Yams are a timeless dish that brings people together with their delightful sweetness and comforting flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Southern cuisine, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Enjoy the sweet, warm embrace of these delicious yams at your next meal! 

Let’s Geaux!!! Veg Out & Eat More Plants🌿🍠✨

Dr. Omilade 

Veg Out Daily