Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish that will impress your guests and family? Look no further! This recipe for Bruce's Marshmallow Yams is a classic comfort food, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, combining the earthy sweetness of yams with the delightful fluffiness of marshmallows – a true taste of nostalgia. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals (with a few tweaks!), or quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds yams, peeled and cubed (about 6 medium)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Yams:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Peel the yams and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Larger cubes will take longer to cook, so aim for consistency.
Step 2: The Flavorful Base:
In a large bowl, combine the cubed yams, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Toss gently until the yams are evenly coated. Make sure all the yam pieces are nicely saturated with the buttery, spiced mixture.
Step 3: Baking to Perfection:
Transfer the yam mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the yams in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the yams are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your yam cubes and your oven.
Step 4: The Marshmallow Magic:
Once the yams are tender, remove the baking dish from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top. Return the dish to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the dish to set a bit and makes it easier to serve. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, comforting side dish!
Tips for Bruce's Best Marshmallow Yams:
- For extra sweetness: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the yam mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of warmth.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the yam mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to bake.
- Different Marshmallows: Feel free to experiment with different types of marshmallows, such as jumbo marshmallows or even a flavored variety.
Variations:
- Cranberry Marshmallow Yams: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the yam mixture for a festive twist.
- Pecan Marshmallow Yams: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans over the marshmallows before baking for added crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact size of your serving. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 8 servings) would be approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-45g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 2-3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a healthier option, consider using less butter and brown sugar, or opting for a lower-calorie sweetener. Enjoy this delicious and comforting side dish – a true testament to the best recipes and simple pleasures of homemade cooking!