How To Cook Candied Yams On Stove Top

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Introduction

Welcome to our guide on how to cook candied yams on the stove top! Candied yams are a classic and delicious side dish that is popular during holiday gatherings and special occasions. This sweet and indulgent treat combines the natural sweetness of yams with a rich syrup made of brown sugar, butter, and warm spices. The result is a caramelized and tender yam dish that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of preparing and cooking candied yams on the stove top. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, you will find our instructions easy to follow and our tips and variations helpful in customizing the dish to your taste.

So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to create a mouthwatering batch of candied yams that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large yams or sweet potatoes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, especially during the fall and winter seasons when yams are in abundance. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on the number of servings you wish to make or any personal preferences you have.

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step process of cooking candied yams on the stove top!

Step 1: Prepare the yams

Before we start cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the yams. Follow these steps:

1. Wash the yams thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Using a sharp knife, carefully peel the outer skin of the yams. Make sure to remove any blemishes or dark spots.
3. Cut the yams into 1-inch thick slices or cubes. This will help them cook evenly and ensure a tender texture.

Once the yams are prepped, you’re ready to move on to the next step!

Step 2: Boil the yams

Boiling the yams is an essential step in the cooking process as it helps to soften them before they are simmered in the candied syrup. Follow these instructions:

1. In a large pot, add enough water to cover the yams.
2. Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil.
3. Add the sliced or cubed yams to the boiling water and let them cook for about 10 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Once the yams are cooked, drain them in a colander and set them aside.

Boiling the yams not only helps to soften them but also removes any excess starch, resulting in a smoother texture. Now that the yams are boiled, it’s time to move on to creating the delicious candied syrup!

Step 3: Make the candied syrup

The candied syrup is the heart and soul of this dish, adding a rich and sweet flavor to the yams. To make the syrup, follow these steps:

1. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to the melted butter.
3. Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar has dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
4. Continue cooking the syrup for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes thick and bubbly.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The aroma of the warm spices and vanilla will fill your kitchen!

Now that your delicious candied syrup is ready, it’s time to move on to the next step, which is cooking the yams in the syrup!

To cook candied yams on the stove top, start by boiling peeled and sliced yams until tender. Then, make a syrup with brown sugar, butter, and spices, and simmer the yams in the syrup until they are glazed and caramelized. Enjoy!

Step 4: Cook the yams in the syrup

Now that you have prepared the yams and made the delicious candied syrup, it’s time to combine them and cook them together to infuse the yams with the sweet flavors. Follow these instructions:

1. Place the drained yams back into the pot you used to boil them.
2. Pour the prepared candied syrup over the yams, ensuring that all the yams are coated evenly.
3. Return the pot to the stove over low heat.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and let the yams simmer in the syrup for about 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the sauce has thickened further.
5. During this time, gently stir the yams occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

As the yams cook in the syrup, they will absorb the flavors, becoming even more delicious and tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as you want the yams to maintain their shape and texture.

Once the yams are cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delectable dish!

Step 5: Serve and enjoy!

Congratulations! You have successfully cooked candied yams on the stove top. Now, it’s time to serve your mouthwatering creation and relish the flavors. Follow these final steps:

1. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked yams from the pot to a serving dish, allowing any excess syrup to drain.
2. You can pour some of the remaining candied syrup over the yams to enhance the sweetness and presentation.
3. Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a few marshmallows for an extra touch of indulgence.
4. Serve the candied yams while they are still warm and enjoy the heavenly combination of soft, caramelized yams with the luscious syrup.
5. These candied yams make a perfect side dish for holiday meals, festive gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your loved ones with your culinary skills.

Now, grab a fork and indulge in the comforting and sweet flavors of your homemade candied yams!

Tips and Variations

Now that you have learned how to cook candied yams on the stove top, here are some tips and variations to help you customize and enhance your dish:

• If you prefer a more caramelized and glazed texture, you can broil the candied yams in the oven for a few minutes after they are cooked on the stove top. This will give them a slightly crispy and caramelized top.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your desired level of sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar, or if you have a sweet tooth, add a bit more.
• Add a splash of freshly squeezed orange juice or a sprinkle of orange zest to the syrup for a citrusy twist that pairs well with the yams.
• You can experiment with different spices such as ginger, cloves, or allspice to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the candied yams.
• If you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, and use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar.
• For added texture and crunch, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top of the finished dish before serving.
• Leftover candied yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove top before serving.

Remember, cooking is an art, and you have the freedom to experiment and personalize your dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Have fun exploring different flavors and techniques to make the perfect candied yams that will delight your palate.

Conclusion

Cooking candied yams on the stove top is a delightful and rewarding experience. The combination of tender yams and a luscious, sweet syrup creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily recreate this classic side dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Whether you’re preparing a special holiday meal or simply want to enjoy a delicious treat any time of the year, these candied yams will surely impress your family and friends. The aroma of warm spices, the caramelized texture of the yams, and the sweet flavors of the syrup will tantalize your taste buds and leave you longing for more.

Remember to have fun and get creative with your candied yams. Feel free to experiment with different spices, alternative sweeteners, or additional toppings to make the dish your own. Cooking is an art, so don’t be afraid to make it your own masterpiece.

Now that you have learned the secrets of cooking candied yams on the stove top, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start creating this delectable dish. So grab your pots and pans, sprinkle some love and flavors, and enjoy the sheer delight of homemade candied yams!