How Long To Cook Candied Yams In The Oven? Unlock the Sweetest Secret!
On average, you should bake candied yams in the oven for approximately 45-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until they are tender and the syrup has thickened. The exact time can vary based on the size of the yams and your oven’s calibration.
A Beloved Sweet Treat: Understanding Candied Yams
Candied yams, often served during holiday meals, are a beloved side dish celebrated for their sweet flavor and vibrant color. Unlike sweet potatoes, which are sometimes mistaken for yams, true yams are less common in North American cuisine. However, the term “yam” is often used interchangeably with sweet potato, especially varieties with orange flesh. This article focuses on preparing those orange-fleshed sweet potatoes as candied yams. Understanding their history and preparation enhances appreciation for this delicious treat.
Health Benefits of Yams (Sweet Potatoes)
While candied yams are a dessert-like dish, the underlying ingredient, sweet potatoes, offer several nutritional benefits:
- Rich in Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth.
- Excellent Source of Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports the immune system and protects against cell damage.
- Good Source of Fiber: Aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Contains Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and supports muscle function.
- Provides Antioxidants: Including beta-carotene, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Of course, the addition of sugar and butter in the candying process significantly increases the calorie and sugar content.
The Perfect Candied Yam Recipe: Step-by-Step
This recipe will guide you through creating deliciously candied yams:
- Prepare the Yams: Wash, peel, and slice the yams into ½-inch thick rounds or cubes.
- Cook the Yams (Pre-Cooking Option): This is optional but recommended. Boil the yam slices for 5-7 minutes, just until slightly tender. Drain well. This helps the yams cook evenly in the oven.
- Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine:
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ¼ cup orange juice or maple syrup for added flavor.
- Arrange and Glaze: Place the yam slices in a baking dish (9×13 inch). Pour the syrup evenly over the yams.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the syrup has thickened. Baste the yams with the syrup every 15-20 minutes to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Avoiding Common Candied Yam Mistakes
- Overcooking: Yams can become mushy if overcooked. Check for doneness with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart.
- Underbaking: Underbaked yams will be tough and not fully caramelized. Ensure the syrup has thickened and the yams are easily pierced with a fork.
- Uneven Slicing: Ensure yam slices are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
- Burning the Syrup: Monitor the yams carefully during baking. If the syrup begins to burn, reduce the oven temperature slightly or cover the dish loosely with foil.
- Using Too Much Sugar: Adjust the sugar amount to your taste. Too much sugar can make the dish overly sweet and potentially burn.
Variations and Enhancements
- Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger, cloves, or allspice.
- Citrus: Add orange zest or lemon zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Alcohol: A splash of bourbon or rum can add a warm, boozy note.
- Marshmallows: For a classic holiday twist, top the yams with marshmallows during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Candied Yams
How do I know when candied yams are done?
The candied yams are done when they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork and the syrup has thickened to a glaze-like consistency. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of your yam slices.
Can I use canned yams for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned yams. Drain them well and reduce the baking time to approximately 30-40 minutes, as they are already cooked. Be mindful of sugar content, as some canned yams are packed in syrup.
What is the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
True yams are starchy and have rough, brown skin. Sweet potatoes, often mislabeled as yams, have smoother skin and come in varieties with orange, white, or even purple flesh. In most North American recipes calling for yams, you’re likely using orange-fleshed sweet potatoes.
Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes! Candied yams can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often meld together even better when made in advance.
Can I freeze candied yams?
Yes, candied yams can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What temperature should I bake candied yams at?
The ideal temperature for baking candied yams is 350°F (175°C). This allows the yams to cook through without burning the syrup.
How do I prevent the yams from burning?
To prevent burning, baste the yams with the syrup every 15-20 minutes. If the syrup is browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly or cover the dish loosely with foil.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
While brown sugar is traditionally used, you can experiment with other sugars like maple syrup or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that different sugars will affect the flavor and consistency of the syrup.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Ensure your sugar is also vegan, as some refined sugars are processed using bone char.
What dishes pair well with candied yams?
Candied yams pair well with savory dishes such as roasted turkey, ham, pork, or chicken. They also complement green bean casserole, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, making them a classic addition to holiday meals.
Why are my candied yams watery?
If your candied yams are watery, it could be due to several factors: overcrowding the baking dish, not pre-cooking the yams, or the yams releasing too much moisture. Try draining excess liquid during baking and ensure proper pre-cooking and spacing.
How can I make my candied yams extra flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your candied yams, try adding a pinch of salt to the syrup to balance the sweetness. Experiment with different spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cloves. Adding a splash of orange juice, maple syrup, or even a touch of bourbon can also elevate the flavor profile.