Tired of the same old Thanksgiving side dishes? This recipe for candied yams in a can with marshmallows offers a deliciously easy and surprisingly delightful twist on a classic. It's the perfect combination of sweet and savory, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or as a simple yet impressive addition to your holiday spread. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade, candied yam goodness!
Ingredients:
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of yams, drained
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 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: Prepare the Yams
Drain the yams thoroughly. You want to remove as much liquid as possible for a caramelized result. You can even gently mash them a bit with a fork if you prefer a smoother texture.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the drained yams, melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix everything well until the yams are evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake the Yams
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the yam mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are heated through and bubbly.
Step 4: Add the Marshmallows
Remove the baking dish from the oven and evenly sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top of the candied yams. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and puffed up.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the candied yams cool slightly before serving. This delicious side dish is perfect with roasted turkey, ham, or any other holiday favorites.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Candied Yams:
- Don't overbake: Keep a close eye on the marshmallows to prevent burning. They can go from golden brown to burnt very quickly.
- Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with different spices. A pinch of ginger or allspice would complement the yams beautifully.
- Sweetness level: Adjust the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup to your liking. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or two.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the yam mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Variations:
- Pecans or Walnuts: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Orange Zest: A tablespoon of orange zest adds a bright citrusy note.
- Spiced Rum: For an adult twist, add a tablespoon or two of spiced rum to the yam mixture before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 35-40g Sugar: 20-25g Protein: 2-3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This simple recipe is a fantastic way to elevate a classic side dish. The candied yams, with their sweet and spicy flavor profile, are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this homemade treat!