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Best Ever Southern Candied Yams

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Southern candied yams are sweet potatoes slow-cooked in a buttery, sweet syrup until they’re tender and glazed to perfection. This dish is a staple in many Southern households, especially during the holidays.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds sweet potatoes (about 5 medium-sized)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice concentrate, thawed

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Wash, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
  3. Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the sliced sweet potatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  4. Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and orange juice concentrate.
  5. Combine: Pour the syrup over the sweet potatoes, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Gently toss to distribute the syrup evenly.
  6. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
  7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, gently stir the sweet potatoes to re-coat with the syrup, and continue baking uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the syrup is bubbly.
  8. Serve: Allow the candied yams to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Spoon some of the syrup over the yams when plating.

Notes

  • For a citrusy twist, add a bit more orange juice concentrate.
  • Adjust the spices to your preference; some variations include a pinch of ground cloves or allspice.
  • This dish can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Find it online: https://recipe.newsvks.com/best-ever-southern-candied-yams/