Glazed Candied Yams: A Taste of Home

The aroma alone transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen every Thanksgiving. The scent of cinnamon and brown sugar, mingling with the earthy sweetness of yams simmering on the stove, was the unofficial signal that the holidays had truly begun. She always made a massive batch, enough to feed the whole family (and then some!), and her secret ingredient, I later discovered, was the generous helping of love she stirred into every bite. These weren’t just yams; they were a symbol of family, tradition, and the warmth of home. Now, I carry on her legacy with this treasured recipe.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 10
• Yield: Approximately 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 lbs yams (about 6 small)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons butter or 3 tablespoons margarine
• 3 tablespoons light cream or 3 tablespoons evaporated milk
• ½ teaspoon salt

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Medium skillet or electric frying pan
• Peeler
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the yams. Thoroughly wash the yams or sweet potatoes to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot and cover with water.
2. Boil the yams until they are just tender when pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the yams. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become mushy.
3. Once the yams are cooked, carefully drain the water and allow them to cool slightly until you can handle them comfortably.
4. Peel the cooled yams. A vegetable peeler works best for this, but a paring knife can also be used.
5. Slice the peeled yams lengthwise into approximately ½-inch thick slices. This ensures even cooking and a pleasing texture.
6. Now, prepare the glaze. In a medium skillet or electric frying pan, combine the ½ cup brown sugar, 3 tablespoons butter (or margarine), 3 tablespoons light cream (or evaporated milk), and ½ teaspoon salt.
7. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the butter is melted. Continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This creates the luscious caramel-like glaze.
8. Gently add the sliced yams to the skillet with the glaze.
9. Carefully turn the yams to ensure they are evenly coated with the glaze. You want each slice to be glistening with the sweet mixture.
10. Continue to cook the yams in the glaze, turning them occasionally, until they are thoroughly heated through and the glaze has thickened slightly. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes. Be careful not to burn the sugar.
11. Once the yams are heated through and beautifully glazed, they are ready to serve.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an even richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. The molasses content adds a deeper caramel note.
• A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg added to the glaze can enhance the warmth and aroma of the dish.
• If the glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or cream to thin it out. Conversely, if the glaze is too thin, continue cooking it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce.
• To prevent sticking, use a non-stick skillet or frying pan. If you don’t have one, you can lightly grease the skillet with butter or cooking spray before adding the glaze.
• For a more intense butter flavor, use browned butter in the glaze. Simply melt the butter in the skillet and continue cooking it until it turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it.
• If you prefer a softer texture, you can bake the glazed yams in a baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until they are tender and the glaze is bubbly.
• To add a festive touch, sprinkle the glazed yams with chopped pecans or walnuts before serving.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These glazed candied yams are best served warm, as a side dish. They complement roasted meats, poultry, and vegetarian mains beautifully. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an elegant presentation.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, or microwave them in short intervals, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If the glaze has thickened too much, add a splash of water or cream while reheating. Candied yams do not freeze well as they tend to get mushy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	186.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	40 g	21%
Total Fat	4.5 g	6%
Saturated Fat	2.8 g	13%
Cholesterol	12.1 mg	4%
Sodium	158.8 mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate	35.9 g	11%
Dietary Fiber	3.5 g	14%
Sugars	11.1 g	44%
Protein	1.5 g	3%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and the cream with a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or a dash of cinnamon to the glaze for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Grate the zest of an orange or lemon into the glaze for a bright, citrusy note.
• Maple Syrup: Replace some or all of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
• Different Sweeteners: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar.
• Nuts: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the glaze for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use canned yams for this recipe?
A: While fresh yams are preferred for their texture and flavor, canned yams can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well and reduce the cooking time in the glaze, as they are already cooked.

Q: How can I prevent the sugar from burning?
A: Keep the heat at medium and stir the glaze constantly to prevent the sugar from sticking and burning.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can boil and slice the yams ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Prepare the glaze just before serving.

Q: What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
A: Often, yams and sweet potatoes are used interchangeably, particularly in the US. True yams are starchy and have a rough skin, while most sweet potatoes have a smoother skin and come in a variety of colors. Either works well in this recipe.

Q: Can I add marshmallows to these candied yams?
A: Absolutely! Add mini marshmallows during the last few minutes of cooking or after the yams are transferred to a baking dish and broil until golden brown.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a connection to my past, a taste of home, and a reminder of the simple joys in life. I encourage you to try this recipe and create your own memories with your loved ones. Experiment with variations, add your own personal touch, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Share your feedback and let me know how it turns out. Consider pairing these glazed candied yams with a juicy roasted turkey or a hearty vegetarian main course for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!