This recipe brings together the sweet, comforting flavors of candied yams with that classic gooey marshmallow topping. Whether you're looking for a holiday side dish or just a sweet treat, this recipe using canned yams is easy, delicious, and reminiscent of Grandma's candied yams recipe. We'll also touch on other ways to enjoy yams, like a simple baked yams recipe or creamy mashed yams recipe, and answer your burning questions about these root vegetables.
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Ingredients:
- 2 (29 ounce) cans cut yams, drained (This recipe uses canned yams recipe for convenience)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (Yams recipe with marshmallows)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Drain the Yams
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Sugars
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Stir continuously until the sugars are fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Add Spices and Vanilla
Step 4: Combine Yams and Sauce
Pour the drained yams into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the warm butter and sugar mixture evenly over the yams. Gently toss to coat the yams thoroughly.
Step 5: Bake the Yams
Step 6: Add Marshmallows (Optional but Recommended!)
Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed and lightly golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Answering Your Questions:
What is the best way to cook yams?
The "best" way to cook yams really depends on the desired outcome.
- Baking: Brings out their natural sweetness and creates a tender, slightly caramelized texture. This is excellent for a simple side or as a base for other dishes (baked yams recipe).
- Boiling: A quick method to cook yams until soft, making them easy to mash (mashed yams recipe) or use in other preparations. However, some nutrients can be lost in the boiling water.
- Roasting: Similar to baking but often done in chunks, which can create crispy edges and soft interiors.
- Steaming: A gentle way to cook yams while retaining more nutrients compared to boiling.
For candied yams, a combination of simmering in a sweet sauce and baking is often preferred.
Are yams just sweet potatoes?
No, yams and sweet potatoes are different root vegetables, although they are often confused, especially in North America. True yams are tubers from the Dioscorea family and have a rough, brown, bark-like skin and starchy, less sweet flesh. They are more commonly found in Caribbean, African, and Asian markets.
The orange-fleshed root vegetable commonly labeled as a "yam" in most US supermarkets is actually a variety of sweet potato. These are softer, sweeter, and have a smoother skin. For this candied yams recipe and most recipes you find in American cookbooks calling for "yams," you'll typically be using sweet potatoes.
Are yams healthy or not?
Both true yams and sweet potatoes (what we often call yams) are nutritious. They are good sources of:
- Fiber: Aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar.
- Vitamins: Especially Vitamin C and Vitamin B6. Sweet potatoes (American "yams") are also very high in Vitamin A (beta-carotene).
- Minerals: Such as potassium and manganese.
- Antioxidants: Help protect the body against cell damage.
When prepared simply (baked, boiled, steamed), yams are a healthy addition to a balanced diet. However, recipes like candied yams, which involve added sugars and butter, should be enjoyed in moderation.
Are yams better baked or boiled?
Again, it depends on the purpose:
- Baked yams: Often retain more of their natural flavor and nutrients compared to boiling. Baking also results in a drier, more concentrated sweetness.
- Boiled yams: Cook quickly and are easy to mash. However, some water-soluble vitamins (like Vitamin C and some B vitamins) can leach into the boiling water.
For preserving the most nutrients and natural flavor, baking or steaming are generally considered better options than boiling. However, boiling is a convenient first step for dishes like mashed yams recipe.
Other Yam Recipe Ideas for Dinner:
While this recipe focuses on a sweet preparation, yams (or sweet potatoes) are versatile and can be used in savory yam recipes for dinner:
- Roasted Yam and Vegetable Medley: Toss diced yams with other vegetables like Brussels sprouts, onions, and carrots, then roast with herbs and olive oil.
- Yam and Black Bean Chili: Add diced yams to your favorite chili recipe for a touch of sweetness and heartiness.
- Yam and Chickpea Curry: A flavorful and vegetarian curry featuring yams, chickpeas, coconut milk, and aromatic spices.
- Baked Yams with Savory Toppings: Top baked split yams with chili, shredded cheese, salsa, or roasted vegetables.
- Yam Fries: Cut yams into fry shapes, toss with oil and spices, and bake or air-fry until crispy.
Enjoy exploring the many delicious ways to cook with yams!
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