How to Make Candied Yams from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide
Candied yams are a beloved side dish during the holidays, and making them from scratch is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making candied yams from scratch, covering the steps, ingredients, and tips to achieve a perfect, sweet, and sticky candied yam dish.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 large yams (or sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Preparation:
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about preparing the yams. You’ll need to select the right type of yams for candied yams. Look for yams that are firm, smooth, and have a sweet, sweet potato-like aroma. Wash the yams thoroughly, then dry them with a clean towel to remove any excess moisture. Cut the yams into 1-inch cubes, and then submerge them in cold water to prevent discoloration.
Step 1: Boil the Yams
Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the yams, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and let the yams cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the yams, and let them cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Candied Yam Syrup
While the yams are cooling, it’s time to prepare the candied yam syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, water, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Place the saucepan over medium heat, and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the syrup reaches 225°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat, and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Candied Yams
Drain the cooled yams, and add them to a large bowl. Pour the candied yam syrup over the yams, and toss to coat. You can use a spatula or your hands to coat the yams evenly. If some yams are still not fully coated, you can cook them in the oven for a few minutes to melt the syrup.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Transfer the candied yams to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 9×5-inch rectangular dish. If using, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top. Dot the surface with butter. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Tips and Variations:
- To make the candied yams more festive, add some holiday flair by drizzling with melted chocolate or adding a sprinkle of red or green sugar on top.
- If you can’t find yams, you can use sweet potatoes instead. They’ll have a slightly different taste but still make a delicious candied yam dish.
- To make candied yams ahead of time, prepare the yams and syrup separately, then assemble them just before baking. You can store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with different spices, such as ground cloves or cardamom, to give your candied yams a unique flavor.
Conclusion:
Making candied yams from scratch is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be able to create a delicious, sweet, and sticky candied yam dish that’s perfect for the holidays. With these tips and variations, you can customize the recipe to your taste and make it your own.
Table: Candied Yams Recipe Comparison
| Recipe | Yams | Sugar | Syrup | Spices | Pecans | Baking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 2-3 large yams | 1 cup brown sugar | 1/2 cup light corn syrup | 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon salt | 375°F for 20-25 minutes |
| Variation 1 | Sweet potatoes | 1 cup granulated sugar | 1/4 cup honey | 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves | 1/4 cup chopped walnuts | 350°F for 25-30 minutes |
| Variation 2 | Yams | 3/4 cup brown sugar | 1/2 cup maple syrup | 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom | 1/4 cup chopped pecans | 375°F for 20-25 minutes |
Final Notes:
Remember to wash your hands before and after handling the yams to avoid contamination. If you’re making candied yams ahead of time, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Always use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature to prevent crystallization. Happy cooking!