Introduction to Southern Candied Yams
Nothing brings the warmth of home quite like a pan of buttery, cinnamon-spiced, caramelized candied yams. A staple in soul food cuisine, this traditional dish is a cherished member of many family gatherings. Let’s dive into a classic southern sweet potato candied yams recipe that’s, bringing you closer to the authentic flavors of black southern cooking.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 4 large fresh sweet potatoes
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and slice sweet potatoes into 1-inch thick rounds.
- In a pot, melt the butter over low heat and mix in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt.
- In a baking dish, arrange the sweet potato slices, layering them as you go.
- Pour the buttery mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes for perfect caramelization.
Tips for Perfect Yams
For the best results, use fresh sweet potatoes rather than canned, as they can lead to a mushy texture. To deepen the flavor, consider drizzling a brown sugar glaze on top before the final baking phase. Remember, patience pays off during cooking—allow the sweetness to develop fully!
As my southern grandma always said, ‘Cook with love and enjoy every bite!’ Your soul food yams will surely bring comfort and joy to your family’s table.
