Candied Yams with Pecans

Name: Candied Yams with Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 pounds of yams (peeled and sliced into 1 inch chunks); ¼ cup of butter (cut into cubes); 5 tablespoons of brown sugar (separated, or more if desired); 1 tablespoon of cream; ¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (divided); ½ cup of pecans; 14 small marshmallows (optional)

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Candied Yams with Pecans

Who doesn’t love a delicious, sweet side dish to accompany their holiday meal? Candied yams with pecans are the perfect addition to any festive spread. They bring a burst of flavor and a touch of indulgence to your table. In this article, we’ll explore the wonders of candied yams with pecans and how to make them yourself. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

What are Candied Yams with Pecans?

Candied yams with pecans are a delightful dish that combines the natural sweetness of yams with a caramelized syrup and a crunchy pecan topping. The yams become tender and infused with a rich, sweet glaze, while the pecans add a delightful nutty crunch. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!

Why Should You Try Candied Yams with Pecans?

There are plenty of reasons why you should give candied yams with pecans a try. Firstly, they are incredibly delicious. The combination of sweet, caramelized flavors and the added crunch of pecans creates a mouthwatering sensation that is hard to resist.

Secondly, candied yams with pecans bring a touch of elegance to your meal. They are a perfect side dish for special occasions or holiday gatherings, elevating the overall dining experience. Your guests will be impressed by the beautiful presentation and the incredible taste.

Lastly, candied yams with pecans are surprisingly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a show-stopping dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Make Candied Yams with Pecans

Now, let’s dive into the process of making candied yams with pecans. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preparing the Yams

Start by peeling and slicing your yams into thick rounds. This will ensure even cooking and a delightful texture. Place the yam slices in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil. Cook the yams until they are just tender, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Creating the Glaze

In a separate saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. This will create a rich, caramel-like glaze that will coat the yams.

Step 3: Assembling the Dish

Place the cooked yams in a baking dish and pour the glaze over them. Make sure each yam slice is coated evenly. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of chopped pecans on top of the yams. The pecans will add a delightful crunch and complement the sweetness of the glaze.

Step 4: Baking to Perfection

Pop the baking dish into a preheated oven and bake the candied yams with pecans at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and the pecans are golden brown. The yams will be tender and infused with the delicious flavors of the glaze and the pecans.

Once the dish is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Your guests will be amazed by the beautiful presentation and the incredible taste of your homemade candied yams with pecans.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use canned yams instead of fresh ones?

A1: Yes, you can use canned yams if you prefer. Just make sure to drain them well before using them in the recipe.

Q2: Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

A2: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds to add your own personal touch to the dish.

Q3: Can I make candied yams with pecans ahead of time?

A3: Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and reheat it before serving. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q4: Can I make candied yams with pecans without using butter?

A4: If you want to make a dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.

Q5: Are candied yams with pecans only for special occasions?

A5: While they are a popular choice for holidays and special events, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy candied yams with pecans any time of the year. Treat yourself!

Q6: Can I add marshmallows to candied yams with pecans?

A6: Absolutely! If you want to take your dish to the next level of indulgence, you can sprinkle mini marshmallows on top of the yams along with the pecans.

Q7: Can I make candied yams with pecans in a slow cooker?

A7: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Follow the same steps for preparing the yams and creating the glaze, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Q8: Can I freeze candied yams with pecans?

A8: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Candied yams with pecans are a delightful side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and crunch to your meal. They are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings. Whether you enjoy them with a festive feast or as a standalone treat, candied yams with pecans are sure to impress. So, why not give them a try and indulge in the irresistible combination of flavors? Your taste buds will thank you!

Candied Yams with Pecans

Prep15 min

Total55 min

Servings6

2 pounds of yams (, peeled and sliced into 1 inch chunks)
¼ cup of butter (, cut into cubes)
5 tablespoons of brown sugar (, separated, or more if desired)
1 tablespoon of cream
¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (, divided)
½ cup of pecans
14 small marshmallows (optional)

Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.
Add the yams to the boiling water and stir occasionally. Cook them until they are tender, which should take about 12 to 15 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Drain the cooked yams and transfer them to a bowl.
Add butter, 4 tablespoons of brown sugar, cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the bowl with the yams.
Mash all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the butter has melted.
Transfer the mashed yams mixture to a casserole dish.
Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon over the top of the yams in the casserole dish.
Arrange pecans and marshmallows on top of the yams.
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.