Are you looking for a delicious and effortless side dish that will impress your guests and family? Look no further! This Crockpot Candied Yams recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or special occasions. Forget the oven-baked hassle; your slow cooker will work its magic to create melt-in-your-mouth candied yams that are bursting with flavor. This recipe is a simple yet elegant addition to any meal, making it a go-to for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 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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Prep the Yams: Peel and cube the yams into roughly 1-inch pieces. Make sure they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cubed yams, brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Toss gently until the yams are evenly coated.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Transfer the yam mixture to your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the yams are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Stir gently halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and prevent sticking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the candied yams warm. They are delicious as a side dish with roasted chicken, ham, turkey, or any other main course.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Candied Yams:
- Don't Overcrowd the Crockpot: Ensure you have enough space in your slow cooker for the yams to cook evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also experiment with different sweeteners like honey or agave nectar.
- Add a Touch of Spice: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ginger to the mixture.
- Garnish for Presentation: Before serving, garnish with chopped pecans, walnuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of elegance.
Delicious Variations:
- Spiced Candied Yams: Add a teaspoon of ground ginger and a half teaspoon of allspice for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
- Marshmallow Candied Yams: Top the cooked yams with mini marshmallows during the last 15 minutes of cooking on low for a gooey, sweet treat.
- Cranberry Candied Yams: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries during the last hour of cooking for a burst of tartness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fiber: 4-5g
- Protein: 2-3g
This easy crockpot candied yams recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also quick and healthy. It's a simple way to elevate your everyday meals and impress your family and friends. Enjoy!