Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish that will impress your guests? Look no further! This recipe for candied yams, a personal favorite I like to call Bruce's Yams, is incredibly simple to make, yet bursting with flavor. Forget complicated recipes; this one is perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, transforming humble yams into a sweet and savory delight. This recipe is a perfect example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly satisfying. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 3 large yams (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking dish or roasting pan. This simple step ensures your yams won't stick and will roast evenly.
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cubed yams with the melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Make sure all the yam pieces are well coated. Don't be afraid to get your hands in there – it’s the best way to ensure even distribution!
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Roast the yams: Spread the yams in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Avoid overcrowding; this helps them caramelize nicely. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the yams are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. You'll know they're done when a fork easily pierces them.
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Serve and enjoy! These candied yams are delicious served warm as a side dish with your favorite main course. They're a fantastic complement to roasted meats, poultry, or even vegetarian dishes.
Tips for the Best Candied Yams:
- Choose the right yams: Look for yams that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating freshness and sweetness.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will result in steaming instead of roasting, preventing proper caramelization.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup. Conversely, add more for an extra decadent treat.
- Add a touch of spice: For a warming kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ginger.
Variations:
- Pecans or Walnuts: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 15 minutes of roasting for added crunch and flavor.
- Marshmallows: For a truly classic candied yam experience, top with mini marshmallows during the last 5 minutes of baking. Broil for a minute or two to brown the marshmallows beautifully.
- Ginger-Lime Twist: Replace the orange juice with lime juice and add 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for a zesty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your yams and the exact ingredients used. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings) is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 2-3g
This recipe offers a delicious and relatively healthy side dish, packed with vitamins and fiber from the yams. Enjoy this simple, yet flavorful recipe – a true addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options! It's a perfect quick dinner idea that’s sure to become a family favorite. Remember, even the simplest dishes can be incredibly delicious with a little love and attention.