Are you looking for a simple yet delicious side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This mashed canned yams recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers creamy, subtly sweet mashed yams that are sure to impress your family and friends. Forget complicated recipes; this one is a true example of homemade cooking at its best, delivering a healthy and satisfying experience. It’s one of those best recipes that's surprisingly quick and makes a wonderful addition to any dinner plate.
Ingredients:
- 2 (15-ounce) cans of yams, drained
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, adjust to your sweetness preference)
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the yams: Drain the canned yams well, discarding any excess liquid. This step is crucial for achieving the desired creamy texture.
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained yams, milk, butter (or oil), salt, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), brown sugar (if using), and pepper.
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Mash it up: Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the yams until they reach your desired consistency. For extra smooth mashed yams, use an immersion blender or food processor.
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Adjust seasonings: Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You might want to add more salt, cinnamon, or brown sugar depending on your taste.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve the mashed yams immediately as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite protein and vegetables. They’re fantastic with roasted chicken, turkey, ham, or even alongside grilled fish.
Tips for the Best Mashed Yams:
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Don't over-mash: While you want creamy mashed yams, avoid over-mashing, as this can make them gummy.
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Warm the milk: Warming the milk slightly before adding it to the yams will help create a smoother, creamier texture.
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Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as toasted pecans, a sprinkle of fresh rosemary, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Variations:
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Spicy yams: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick. This makes a great quick dinner idea with a little zest.
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Sweet potato mash: For a similar dish with a different flavor profile, substitute canned sweet potatoes for the yams.
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Savory yams: Omit the brown sugar and cinnamon, and instead add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a savory twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on additions)
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 2-3g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
This easy recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a healthy and delicious meal on the table quickly. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful mashed yams! They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic example of how easy delicious dishes can be. This is truly one of the best recipes for a simple yet satisfying side.