Caramel Candied Yams

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of caramelized sugar and sweet potatoes wafting through the kitchen. Growing up, my family often made Caramel Candied Yams during the holidays, transforming our dinner table into a festive display of vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas. This recipe has been a beloved tradition, and each time I make it, I’m transported back to those joyous gatherings, filled with laughter and warmth. The rich caramel sauce beautifully enveloping the sweet potatoes, combined with the crunch of pecans, makes it a dish that everyone at the table can’t resist. It’s a side dish that has found its way into our hearts and stomachs, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Ingredients

• 4 medium sweet potatoes or yams, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange Sweet Potatoes: Arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Overlapping is okay, but try to keep them in an even layer for consistent cooking.
3. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, water, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil and the sugars are completely dissolved. This should take about 5 minutes.
4. Pour Sauce Over Potatoes: Once the caramel sauce is ready, pour it evenly over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure to coat each slice for maximum flavor.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to absorb the rich flavors of the caramel sauce.
6. Add Pecans: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender and the caramel is bubbling.
7. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy this decadent side dish!

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup
• Calories: 250 kcal
• Sugar: 30 g
• Sodium: 75 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside your holiday ham, turkey, or roast.
• With Marshmallows: For a fun twist, top with mini marshmallows before the final bake for a gooey addition.
• On a Buffet Table: Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings; it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Garnished with Pecans: Make sure to highlight the pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Selecting Sweet Potatoes: Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
2. Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can bring a delightful heat.
3. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the caramel sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before pouring it over the potatoes.
4. Check for Doneness: Use a fork to test the tenderness of the sweet potatoes; they should be easily pierced when done.
5. Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of sugar for a healthier take.
• Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different texture and flavor.
• Fruit Additions: Consider adding chopped apples or pears for a fruity twist that complements the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• With Protein: Pair this dish with grilled chicken, pork chops, or roasted turkey for a complete meal.
• As a Dessert: With its sweet, caramelized flavor, it can also be served as a dessert, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
• With Bread: Serve alongside fresh cornbread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious caramel sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the prepared dish before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

• While you can use regular potatoes, sweet potatoes provide a distinct flavor and sweetness that’s essential to this dish.

1. What can I substitute for brown sugar?

• You can use coconut sugar or a blend of white sugar and molasses as a substitute.

1. Can I add marshmallows to this recipe?

• Yes! You can add mini marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking for a sweet and gooey topping.

1. Is this dish gluten-free?

• Yes, as long as you ensure that the sugars and other ingredients are gluten-free, this dish is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

1. How do I know when the yams are done?

• They should be tender when pierced with a fork and the caramel sauce should be bubbly.

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

1. What is the best way to peel sweet potatoes?

• Using a vegetable peeler is the most efficient method; you can also boil them for a few minutes to loosen the skin.

1. What type of sweet potatoes should I use?

• Both orange-fleshed yams and sweet potatoes work well; choose based on your preference.

1. Can I use a different type of nut?

• Absolutely! Walnuts or hazelnuts are great alternatives.

1. What drinks pair well with this dish?
   • Sweet tea, apple cider, or even a light white wine can complement the flavors nicely.

Conclusion

Caramel Candied Yams are not just a holiday treat; they can brighten up any meal with their vibrant flavors and comforting textures. Whether enjoyed as a side dish during festive gatherings or as a simple weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home as it has in mine. The combination of sweet potatoes, caramel, and pecans is a match made in culinary heaven. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish with your loved ones as much as I do!

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