Slow Cooker Candied Yams

Name: Slow Cooker Candied Yams
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 195 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 5 cups of yams (peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces); 1 ¼ cups of water; 1 cup of brown sugar; ¾ cup of pineapple juice; ¼ cup of cubed salted butter; 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg; 2 tablespoons of cornstarch; 2 tablespoons of water

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Slow Cooker Candied Yams: A Sweet and Easy Delight

Are you craving a sweet and satisfying dessert that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavors? Look no further than slow cooker candied yams! This delightful treat is a perfect combination of soft, tender yams and a sticky, sweet glaze that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. In this article, we will explore the art of making slow cooker candied yams, uncovering the secrets to achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Preparing the Yams: A Foundation of Flavor

The first step to creating delectable slow cooker candied yams is selecting the right yams. Look for yams that are firm, with smooth skin and vibrant color. Once you’ve chosen the perfect yams, give them a good scrub to remove any dirt or debris. Now, it’s time to peel and chop the yams into bite-sized pieces. Remember, the size of the yam chunks will affect the cooking time and texture, so choose wisely.

Cooking Slow and Steady: The Magic of the Crockpot

The beauty of slow cooker candied yams lies in the gentle cooking process that allows all the flavors to meld together. Simply place the chopped yams into the slow cooker and add a mixture of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla extract. Give everything a good stir, ensuring that each yam piece is coated with the sweet glaze. Now, cover the slow cooker and set it on low heat for several hours.

The Aroma of Anticipation: Waiting for Perfection

As the slow cooker does its magic, your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing aroma of cinnamon and caramelized sugar. But be patient! Slow cooker candied yams require time to reach the desired tenderness and flavor. It’s during this waiting period that the yams absorb the sweetness of the glaze, turning into a mouthwatering treat that is worth the wait.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be a great substitute for yams in this recipe. While yams tend to have a slightly sweeter taste and richer texture, sweet potatoes will still yield delicious results.

2. How long should I cook the yams?

The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the yam pieces and the desired tenderness. On average, cooking the yams on low heat for 4-6 hours should result in perfectly tender candied yams.

3. Can I add marshmallows to the recipe?

Certainly! Adding marshmallows to the top of the candied yams during the last 30 minutes of cooking can create a delightful gooey topping that adds an extra layer of sweetness.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of slow cooker candied yams by using plant-based butter and substituting the brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! Allow the candied yams to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.

6. Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Certainly! Chopped pecans or walnuts make a delightful addition to slow cooker candied yams. Just sprinkle them on top before serving for an extra crunch.

7. How do I prevent the yams from getting mushy?

To avoid mushy yams, be mindful of the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to a softer texture. Additionally, cutting the yams into larger chunks will help maintain their shape and texture.

8. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can make a similar version of candied yams in the oven. Simply toss the yams with the glaze mixture and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until tender. Remember to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

In Conclusion

Slow cooker candied yams are a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of yams and the richness of a sticky glaze. With a little patience and the right ingredients, you can create a dessert that will impress both your family and friends. So, grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave everyone craving for more.

Slow Cooker Candied Yams

Prep15 min

Total3 hr 15 min

Servings6

5 cups of yams (, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 ¼ cups of water
1 cup of brown sugar
¾ cup of pineapple juice
¼ cup of cubed salted butter
2 tablespoons of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons of cornstarch
2 tablespoons of water

Prepare a slow cooker by lining it with a slow cooker liner or spraying it with cooking spray.
Place the yams in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Top the yams with water, brown sugar, pineapple juice, butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the sauce.
Cook on Low heat setting for 2 hours. Stir the mixture.
In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the slow cooker and stir to incorporate it into the sauce.
Continue cooking until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork and the sauce has thickened, which should take about 1 more hour.

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