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Southern Candied Yams Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 127 reviews

Southern Candied Yams are a classic, comforting side dish featuring tender sweet potatoes simmered in a rich, buttery syrup made with brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of orange juice concentrate. This recipe captures the essence of Southern cuisine with sweet, warm spices and a luscious glaze that perfectly complements holiday meals or everyday dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Yams

  • 2 lb sweet potatoes

Syrup & Seasoning

  • 3/4 cup dark brown sugar (or light brown sugar)
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp ginger
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
  • 4 tbsp frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yams: Scrub, peel, and slice the yams into ½-inch rounds to ensure even cooking and maximum absorption of the syrup flavors.
  2. Combine Ingredients in Pot: In a medium, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat, add the sliced yams along with butter, both sugars, orange juice concentrate, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly to coat the yams evenly with the buttery sugar mixture.
  3. Simmer the Yams: Once the butter and sugars melt and begin bubbling into a thick syrup, cover the pot and lower the heat to let the yams simmer gently for about 50 minutes. Cook until the yams are tender and can be pierced easily with a fork. If they remain firm, continue cooking until tender.
  4. Thicken the Syrup: Remove the lid and increase the stove temperature to medium. Allow the syrup to come to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until it thickens and coats the yams beautifully with a glossy glaze.
  5. Keep Warm and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and keep it warm in the oven until ready to serve. These candied yams are best enjoyed warm and make an excellent accompaniment to holiday feasts or comforting meals year-round.

Notes

  • Use fresh sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
  • Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg according to your preference for spice intensity.
  • The orange juice concentrate adds a subtle citrus note; you may substitute with fresh orange juice if preferred, but reduce liquid to prevent a runny syrup.
  • Keeping the pot covered while simmering ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
  • For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter.

Keywords: Southern Candied Yams, Sweet Potato Side Dish, Holiday Side Recipe, Southern Cuisine, Candied Sweet Potatoes

Find it online: https://kitchenbyclara.com/southern-candied-yams-recipe/