Candied Yams
A delightful comfort food that showcases the warm, velvety texture and sweet, aromatic flavors of yams, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
For the syrup
- 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter plus more for greasing the pan
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar can substitute with light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice freshly squeezed for the best flavor
- 2 Tbsp. bourbon optional
- 1 stick cinnamon 3-inch stick, can be discarded after cooking
- Pinch grated fresh nutmeg for added aromatic flavor
- Pinch kosher salt
For the yams
- 5 medium yams about 3 lb.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and grease a medium baking dish with butter.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, dark brown sugar, fresh orange juice, optional bourbon, cinnamon stick, grated nutmeg, and kosher salt. Bring to a gentle boil for about 10 minutes until thickened. Discard the cinnamon stick.
- Peel the yams and slice them into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
- Layer the yam slices in the prepared baking dish and pour the syrup over them. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
Baking
- Bake the yams for 30 minutes. Then uncover and continue baking, basting every 15 minutes for an additional 50 to 60 minutes until they are soft and fork-tender.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Consider tasting the syrup before pouring it over the yams to adjust the sweetness or spice levels. For crispy tops, remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.