Candied Yams Recipe

What are candied yams?

Candied yams are a traditional American dish made with sweet potatoes that are cooked and glazed with a sweet mixture of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and spices. This dish is characterized by its soft and creamy interior, while the exterior develops a shiny caramelized layer that provides a delicious contrast between crispy and tender.

The preparation involves a slow cooking process where the sweet potatoes gradually absorb the sweet syrup, creating layers of intensifying flavor. They can be prepared with either fresh or canned sweet potatoes, and the key is maintaining a balance between the natural sweetness of the tuber and the glaze, resulting in a versatile side dish that's perfect for serving with roasted meats.

Tips for Choosing the Best Sweet Potatoes for Candying

Selecting the right sweet potatoes is essential for achieving a delicious dish with perfect texture. The best sweet potatoes for candying are those with uniform color, firm skin, and no blemishes or bruises.

Characteristics to Look For:

Medium and uniform size, ideally between 4-6 inches, to ensure even cooking.
Bright orange-reddish skin, indicating high beta-carotene content and optimal ripeness.
Firm to the touch with solid consistency throughout, without soft spots.
No sprouts or green areas that might indicate excessive light exposure or beginning germination.
Weight proportional to size, avoiding those that feel unusually light or heavy.

Signs of Freshness:

Smooth, unwrinkled surface, indicating proper storage and moisture retention.
No cracks or cuts that could compromise quality and storage time.
Intact and firm ends, without signs of deterioration or transport damage.
No dark spots or mold that might indicate beginning decomposition or poor storage.
Characteristic sweet and earthy aroma, without unpleasant or fermented smells.

When to Avoid:

If they have soft or sunken areas indicating internal damage or beginning rot.
If they show irregular discoloration or suspicious spots on their surface.
If they're sprouting, which significantly affects their flavor and texture.
If they're too large or irregular, as they may cook unevenly.
If they have very wrinkled skin, a sign they've lost too much moisture.

As a practical alternative, canned sweet potatoes are a convenient and valid option for preparing this dish, especially when it's not in season or when looking to save preparation time.

The Correct Technique for Peeling and Cutting Sweet Potatoes

To achieve perfect results when preparing candied yams, it's essential to start with the proper peeling and cutting technique. Here's the step-by-step process:

Initial Preparation:

Carefully wash the sweet potatoes under cold running water until all traces of dirt and soil are removed.
Use a clean towel to thoroughly dry each sweet potato before beginning the peeling process.
Secure your cutting board by placing a damp kitchen towel underneath for greater stability and safety.
Keep sweet potatoes at room temperature, never refrigerated, to facilitate handling.
For very hard sweet potatoes, heat them in the microwave for 2-3 minutes at medium power.

Peeling Technique:

Begin by cutting off the ends of each sweet potato to create a stable work surface.
Select a serrated vegetable peeler for better grip and peeling control.
Make firm, continuous movements from one end to the other while rotating the sweet potato.
Apply moderate and constant pressure to remove only the skin without wasting the flesh.
Work quickly once peeled to prevent the surface from oxidizing and darkening.

Cutting Method:

Position the peeled sweet potato horizontally on the clean and stable cutting board.
Hold a heavy, sharp chef's knife to achieve clean and precise cuts.
Make perpendicular cuts maintaining a uniform thickness of 1.2 cm between each slice.
Verify that all slices have the same thickness to ensure uniform cooking.

Tips for Achieving Caramelized Exterior and Tender Interior Sweet Potatoes

To achieve that perfect texture combining a caramelized exterior and soft interior, here are the key tips:

Initial Preparation:

Cut sweet potatoes into uniform 1.2 cm (1/2 inch) slices to ensure even cooking.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal caramelization.
Use a cast-iron skillet to obtain uniform heat distribution.

During Cooking:

Initially cover with aluminum foil for the first 40 minutes to create a steaming effect.
Remove the aluminum foil in the final stage to allow caramelization.
Maintain a constant medium temperature so the sugar caramelizes without burning.
Turn the pieces occasionally to ensure uniform caramelization.

For the Perfect Glaze:

Combine melted butter with brown sugar before adding the spices.
Add the glaze in several layers during cooking.
Maintain the correct liquid proportion to prevent the syrup from becoming too thick.
Drizzle with honey before baking to enhance caramelization.

Necessary Ingredients

To prepare delicious candied yams, you'll need basic ingredients that combine to create that characteristic sweet and caramelized flavor. This recipe serves 6-8 portions.

Sweet potatoes: 1.5 kg - Fresh and firm tubers that provide the natural sweet base of the dish.
Brown sugar: 200 g - Creates caramelization and characteristic deep flavor.
Unsalted butter: 115 g - Adds richness and helps create the perfect glaze.
Water: 120 ml - Helps create the syrup and maintains moisture during cooking.
Corn syrup: 60 ml - Prevents sugar crystallization and adds shine.
Honey: 2 tablespoons - Intensifies caramelization and adds natural sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: 2 teaspoons - Adds warmth and traditional spiced aroma.
Vanilla: 1 teaspoon - Complements sweet flavors and adds depth.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon - Balances sweet flavors and enhances natural taste.
Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon - Enhances sweet flavors and adds complexity.
Ground ginger: 1/4 teaspoon - Adds a warm and spicy touch.
Marshmallows: 2 cups (optional) - Provides a sweet and golden layer on top.

How to Make Candied Yams Step by Step

Preparing perfect candied yams requires attention to detail and patience. This step-by-step process will guide you to achieve that ideal balance between a caramelized exterior and tender interior.

Step 1: Initial Preparation

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a cast-iron pan or oven-safe dish.
Carefully wash 1.5 kg of sweet potatoes under cold running water and dry them completely with a clean towel.

Step 2: Sweet Potato Preparation

Peel the sweet potatoes with a serrated peeler, cutting the ends first to create a stable base.
Cut into uniform 1.2 cm thick slices to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Base Syrup Preparation

In a saucepan, melt 115 g of unsalted butter with 200 g of brown sugar over medium heat.
Add 120 ml of water and 60 ml of corn syrup, stirring until obtaining a homogeneous mixture.

Step 4: Adding Spices

Add 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger to the syrup.
Incorporate 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1/2 teaspoon salt, mixing gently.

Step 5: Arrangement and First Baking

Arrange the sweet potato slices in the pan, slightly overlapping them.
Pour half of the syrup over the sweet potatoes and cover with aluminum foil.

Step 6: Baking Process

Bake covered for 40 minutes until the sweet potatoes soften.
Remove the aluminum foil and pour the remaining syrup along with 2 tablespoons of honey.

Step 7: Final Caramelization

Continue baking uncovered for 20-25 minutes, occasionally turning the sweet potatoes.
Optional: add 2 cups of marshmallows in the last 5 minutes for a golden touch.

The final result should be sweet potatoes that are shiny and caramelized on the outside while remaining tender inside. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the syrup to thicken and the flavors to settle.

Tips to Prevent Candied Yams from Being Too Sweet

To maintain a perfect balance in the flavor of candied yams, here are essential tips:

During Preparation:

Cut sweet potatoes into uniform pieces and cook them quickly between 135°F and 170°F to prevent too much starch from converting to sugar.
Briefly boil the sweet potatoes before baking to minimize starch-to-sugar conversion.
Use apple cider vinegar in the syrup to balance the natural sweetness.

For the Syrup:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar to 3/4 cup per 1.5 kg of sweet potatoes.
Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweet flavors.
Use unsalted butter for better control over the final taste.

If They Turned Out Too Sweet:

Add sour cream or buttermilk to counteract excess sweetness.
Incorporate spicy seasonings like ground ginger to balance the flavor.
If using canned sweet potatoes, rinse them before using to remove excess sugar.

Flavor Adjustments:

Add a touch of acidity with fresh lemon or lime juice.
Increase aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Avoid using marshmallows, as they add unnecessary sweetness.

Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Candied Yams

Candied yams are a versatile dish that can be complemented with various side dishes to create a complete and balanced meal.

Main Meats:

Oven-roasted pork tenderloin with aromatic herbs that benefits from the sweet contrast of the yams.
Roasted beef round or shoulder with natural juices whose robust flavor pairs perfectly.
Shredded roasted chicken with golden skin that provides a complementary texture and flavor.

Ideal Fish:

Baked sea bass with lemon and rosemary that provides a delicate and fresh flavor.
Herb-butter baked salmon whose juicy texture complements the yams.
Olive oil confit cod that offers a perfect salty contrast.

Additional Side Dishes:

Sautéed broccoli with garlic and olive oil to add a nutritious green touch.
Brussels sprouts halved and roasted until golden and crispy.
Butter-sautéed asparagus that adds texture and freshness.

Sauces and Dressings:

Sour cream with chopped chives to balance the natural sweetness.
Cream cheese sauce with fresh herbs to add creaminess.
Spiced mayonnaise with Dijon mustard and black pepper for a spicy touch.

Crunchy Toppings:

Lightly toasted pine nuts to add texture and a nutty flavor.
Fresh chopped chives sprinkled just before serving for a touch of color and flavor.
Gratinated parmesan cheese until achieving a golden and crispy finish.

How to Properly Store Candied Yams

To maintain the flavor and texture of your candied yams, here are the best storage methods:

In the Refrigerator:

Allow the yams to cool completely at room temperature for at least one hour before storing.
Store them in an airtight container for 3-5 days at a constant temperature of 40°F (4°C).
Keep the syrup together with the yams to maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out during storage.
The yams reach their best flavor and texture during the first two days of refrigeration.

In the Freezer:

Cool the yams completely to room temperature before preparing for freezing.
Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container at 0°F (-18°C), removing as much air as possible.
They can be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer maintaining a constant temperature.
Freezing is not recommended if they have marshmallows added as the texture deteriorates significantly.

For Reheating:

In the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with aluminum foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes until completely hot.
In the microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently between each interval to distribute heat evenly.
On the stovetop: Use medium-low heat, keep covered, for 6-8 minutes or until they reach a uniform temperature.

Additional Tips:

Don't stir too much when reheating to maintain the integrity of the pieces and prevent them from turning into puree.
If frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for safe and uniform defrosting.
For special events, consider preparing them fresh as the flavor and texture will be significantly better.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can they be prepared in advance?

A: Yes, candied yams can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them on the stove or in the oven when ready to serve, adding a little water if the syrup is too thick.

Q: Why is it better to bake sweet potatoes with their skin on?

A: When baking sweet potatoes with their skin on, they better retain their juices and natural properties, resulting in more flavorful dishes. The skin acts as a natural barrier that helps the sweet potato cook evenly and maintain its moisture.

Q: What is the ideal temperature and baking time?

A: The ideal temperature is 375°F (190°C) for the first 45 minutes covered with aluminum foil, followed by an additional 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) uncovered to achieve perfect caramelization.

Q: Can canned sweet potatoes be used instead of fresh ones?

A: Yes, canned sweet potatoes are a valid and convenient alternative. However, it's important to drain them well before using and keep in mind that cooking time will be shorter since they come pre-cooked.