Are you looking for a delicious and easy side dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This recipe for Bruce's candied yams with marshmallows is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a delightful texture that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, this recipe is a staple in our home, and soon, it will be in yours! This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest; it's easier than you might think to create delicious dishes from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish. This simple step ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
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Boil the yams: In a large pot, cover the cubed yams with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Don't overcook them, as they'll continue to soften in the oven.
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Drain and prepare the sauce: Drain the yams well. While still warm, gently toss them with the melted butter in the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt. Pour this mixture over the yams, ensuring they're evenly coated. This sweet and spiced sauce is the key to the dish's incredible flavor.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
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Top with marshmallows: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the miniature marshmallows evenly over the top. Return to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and slightly toasted. This adds a delightful gooey sweetness and a beautiful finish.
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Serve and enjoy! Let the candied yams cool slightly before serving. They're delicious warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sauce.
- If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices. A dash of ginger or cardamom can add a unique twist.
- Roasting the yams instead of boiling them adds a deeper flavor. Simply toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
Variations:
- Spicy Candied Yams: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Pecan Candied Yams: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the yams before adding the marshmallows for added crunch and nutty flavor.
- Coconut Candied Yams: Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the sauce for a tropical twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Protein: Approximately 2-3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy recipe makes for a quick dinner side or a festive addition to your holiday spread. Enjoy this delicious and simple recipe, perfect for beginner cooks looking for healthy meals or experienced chefs seeking a classic with a twist! It’s a truly satisfying and memorable dish.