Great-Grandma's Candied Yams

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Who doesn't love a delicious side dish of candied yams? The sweet, caramelized flavors combined with the tender, buttery yams make for a mouthwatering treat.

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Great-Grandma's Candied Yams
Prep
10 min
Cook
3 hr 50 min
Total
4 hr 15 min
Servings
16

Method

  1. Fill a large pot with water and heat it on high until it boils.

  2. Add the yams to the boiling water and let them cook for 10 minutes.

  3. Drain the yams and rinse them twice with cold water.

  4. Fill a bowl with cold water and soak the yams in it for 15 minutes.

  5. While the yams are soaking, preheat the oven to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).

  6. In a small bowl, combine white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

  7. Peel the yams and cut them into chunks. Place the chunks in a large baking dish.

  8. Dot the yams with butter and sprinkle the sugar mixture over them, making sure they are all coated.

  9. Carefully pour enough orange juice into the baking dish to measure 1/2 inch.

  10. Bake the dish in the preheated oven, basting the yams often, until they are tender and the liquid becomes thick and sticky. This will take about 3 to 3 1/2 hours.

  11. Sprinkle mini marshmallows over the yams.

  12. Turn on the broiler in the oven and broil the dish until the marshmallows are melted and toasted. This will take approximately 5 minutes.

About this recipe

Who doesn't love a delicious side dish of candied yams? The sweet, caramelized flavors combined with the tender, buttery yams make for a mouthwatering treat. In this article, we will explore the secrets behind Great-Grandma's famous candied yams recipe. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family with this timeless classic!

The History of Great-Grandma's Candied Yams

Great-Grandma's candied yams have been a beloved family tradition for generations. Passed down from grandmother to mother to daughter, this recipe holds a special place in our hearts. The secret to its deliciousness lies in the careful selection of ingredients and the slow-cooking process that allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

The Ingredients

Great-Grandma believed that the key to a truly exceptional dish is using the freshest and highest quality ingredients. She would handpick sweet potatoes from her garden and source the finest brown sugar and butter from the local market. The combination of these simple yet wholesome ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

The Preparation

Great-Grandma's candied yams require a bit of preparation, but the end result is well worth the effort. After peeling and slicing the yams, she would carefully layer them in a baking dish, generously sprinkling each layer with brown sugar and dotting them with butter. This creates a delightful balance of sweetness and richness that permeates every bite.

The Cooking Process

Patience is key when it comes to cooking Great-Grandma's candied yams. She would bake them in the oven at a low temperature, allowing the flavors to slowly develop and the yams to become tender and caramelized. The aroma that filled the kitchen was simply irresistible, making it nearly impossible to wait until they were ready to eat.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use canned yams instead of fresh ones?

While using fresh yams is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can certainly use canned yams if you're short on time. Just make sure to drain them well before proceeding with the recipe.

Can I substitute white sugar for brown sugar?

Brown sugar adds a unique depth of flavor and richness to the dish, so it's best to stick with it. However, if you don't have any on hand, you can use white sugar as a substitute.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Great-Grandma's candied yams taste even better the next day! You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I add marshmallows on top?

While it's not traditional in Great-Grandma's recipe, adding marshmallows can be a delicious and fun twist. Simply sprinkle them over the yams during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, sweet topping.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan margarine or coconut oil. Just make sure to choose a vegan-friendly brown sugar as well.

Can I add nuts for some extra crunch?

Great-Grandma's recipe doesn't call for nuts, but if you enjoy the added crunch, feel free to sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the yams before baking.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Yes, you can! Simply transfer the prepared yams to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until they are tender and caramelized.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Great-Grandma's candied yams recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled to feed a larger gathering. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

In Conclusion

Great-Grandma's candied yams recipe is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The combination of sweet yams, brown sugar, and butter creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you're continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab your apron and get ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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