Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of sweet and spicy flavor? Then get ready to make Mexican Camote Candy, a delightful treat that’s surprisingly easy to make! This recipe takes the humble sweet potato and transforms it into a vibrant, chewy candy that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing your friends and family. It’s a delicious blend of homemade cooking simplicity and vibrant Mexican flavors, perfect for a quick dessert or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and cubed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Sweet Potatoes
Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. You'll know they're ready when a fork easily pierces them. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Making the Candy Syrup
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Do not stir! Let the sugar dissolve completely and the mixture come to a simmer. Once simmering, continue cooking without stirring until the syrup reaches a light amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to burn the sugar; it can happen quickly!
Step 3: Combining and Cooking
Carefully add the cooked sweet potatoes, lime juice, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the amber syrup. Stir gently to coat the sweet potatoes evenly. Reduce heat to low and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup has thickened and the sweet potatoes are coated in a glossy candy.
Step 4: Cooling and Setting
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Carefully pour the camote candy onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly into a thin layer. Let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, you can optionally sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Step 5: Cutting and Serving
Once the candy is completely cool and set (this may take a few hours), use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or other desired shapes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Mexican Camote Candy:
- Don't stir the sugar syrup: Stirring while the sugar is dissolving can cause crystallization.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan: This helps to prevent burning.
- Watch the color of the syrup carefully: Overcooking can result in a burnt flavor.
- Cool completely before cutting: This ensures that the candy sets properly and doesn't crumble.
Variations:
- Orange Zest: Add the zest of one orange for a citrusy twist.
- Different Nuts: Experiment with other nuts like almonds or pistachios.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled candy for an extra decadent touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your servings and the additions you choose. However, a general estimate for a single serving (assuming no nuts or chocolate) would be around 200-250 calories, with a moderate amount of sugar and fiber. Always check nutrition facts based on your specific ingredients and serving sizes.
This easy recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy meals you can prepare at home. The vibrant colors and sweet and spicy flavors make this Mexican Camote Candy a true crowd-pleaser. It's a simple yet impressive dessert, perfect for any occasion, and an excellent addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy!