Are you craving a delicious and comforting side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these stovetop candied yams! Forget the oven; this recipe delivers perfectly sweet and caramelized yams in a fraction of the time, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinners or holiday feasts. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, and it’s a great example of delicious dishes achievable through simple homemade cooking. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds yams, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 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 your yams and slice them thinly and evenly. Consistency in thickness ensures even cooking. Aim for slices around 1/4 inch thick.
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Melt the Butter: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works best!), melt the butter over medium heat.
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Sauté the Yams: Add the sliced yams to the melted butter and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the Sweetness: Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, and orange juice. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves and the yams are coated in a syrupy mixture.
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Spice it Up: Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir well to combine and coat the yams evenly with the spices.
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Caramelize: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The yams should be easily pierced with a fork.
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Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. These candied yams are delightful as a side dish with roasted meats, poultry, or even alongside your favorite vegetarian main course.
Cooking Tips for the Best Candied Yams:
- Even Slicing: Uniformly sliced yams will cook evenly. Use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer for best results.
- Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavy-bottomed skillet helps prevent burning and ensures even heat distribution.
- Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the pan; this can lead to steaming instead of caramelizing. Work in batches if necessary.
- Taste and Adjust: Feel free to adjust the sweetness and spices to your preference. A dash of vanilla extract adds a lovely touch.
Variations:
- Spicy Candied Yams: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Ginger Candied Yams: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pecan Candied Yams: Toss in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans during the last few minutes of cooking for added crunch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your yams and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 200-250
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 2-3g
These stovetop candied yams are a simple yet elegant side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this easy recipe! They’re a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and are sure to become a family favorite.