How to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes from Scratch
Candied sweet potatoes are a delicious and sweet side dish that can be enjoyed during the fall and winter seasons. They are made by boiling or baking sweet potatoes until they are tender, then coating them in a mixture of sugar, water, and spices. This process creates a sweet and sticky exterior, while keeping the inside of the sweet potato tender and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling or baking sweet potatoes
- Colander or strainer
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Oven
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
- Poke some holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Rub the sweet potatoes with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt.
Step 2: Boil or Bake the Sweet Potatoes
- If boiling, place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- If baking, place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Candied Sweet Potato Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add the chopped nuts (if using) and whisk until well combined.
- Add the unsalted butter and whisk until the mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
- Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel them and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Place the sweet potato slices in a large bowl and pour the candied sweet potato mixture over them.
- Toss the sweet potato slices to coat them evenly with the mixture.
Step 5: Bake the Candied Sweet Potatoes
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer.
- Bake the sweet potatoes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the candied sweet potatoes warm, garnished with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- To make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time, prepare the mixture and coat the sweet potatoes as instructed, then refrigerate or freeze them until ready to bake.
- To add a little extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground ginger to the candied sweet potato mixture.
- To make candied sweet potatoes in a slow cooker, cook the sweet potatoes on low for 2-3 hours, then coat them with the mixture and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Table: Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potatoes | 2-3 | |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/2 cup | |
| Water | 1/4 cup | |
| Brown Sugar | 1 tablespoon | |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | |
| Ground Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | |
| Chopped Nuts (optional) | 1/4 cup | |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 tablespoon |
Safety Precautions:
- Always use caution when handling hot sweet potatoes and baking sheets.
- Make sure the oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking the sweet potatoes.
- Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes while they are baking, as they can quickly go from perfectly cooked to burnt.
Conclusion:
Candied sweet potatoes are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that can be enjoyed during the fall and winter seasons. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a sweet and sticky exterior, while keeping the inside of the sweet potato tender and flavorful. Whether you prefer to bake or boil your sweet potatoes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.