Candied yams are a classic dish that’s perfect for the holidays, family gatherings, and even everyday meals. They’re sweet, tender, and full of flavor. However, cooking candied yams can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to determining the right cooking time in the oven. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook candied yams in the oven, including the ideal cooking time, temperature, and techniques to achieve perfection.
Understanding the Basics of Candied Yams
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about what candied yams are and how they’re different from regular yams. Candied yams are a type of sweet potato dish that’s been cooked in a sugar syrup, resulting in a sweet, caramelized exterior and a tender, fluffy interior. They’re often served as a side dish, especially during the holidays.
Candied yams are made from sweet potatoes, which are a type of root vegetable that’s native to the Americas. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes
When it comes to making candied yams, the type of sweet potato you use can make a big difference. Look for sweet potatoes that are high in moisture and have a sweet, nutty flavor. Some popular varieties of sweet potatoes include:
- Jewel sweet potatoes: These are one of the most popular varieties of sweet potatoes and are known for their sweet, nutty flavor and moist texture.
- Beauregard sweet potatoes: These sweet potatoes have a slightly sweet flavor and a firm, waxy texture.
- Garnet sweet potatoes: These sweet potatoes have a sweet, slightly nutty flavor and a soft, moist texture.
Cooking Candied Yams in the Oven
Now that we’ve covered the basics of candied yams, let’s talk about how to cook them in the oven. Cooking candied yams in the oven is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques.
Ingredients and Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need to cook candied yams in the oven:
- 2-3 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup marshmallows (optional)
You’ll also need a 9×13 inch baking dish and a large bowl for mixing the sweet potatoes.
Instructions
Here’s how to cook candied yams in the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into 1/4 inch thick rounds.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, water, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix well until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
- Transfer the sweet potato mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and dot the top with unsalted butter.
- Bake the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
- If using marshmallows, sprinkle them over the top of the sweet potatoes and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the marshmallows are toasted and golden brown.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature for candied yams will depend on the size and thickness of the sweet potatoes, as well as your personal preference for doneness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking candied yams in the oven:
- Thinly sliced sweet potatoes: 20-30 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Medium-thick sweet potatoes: 30-40 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Thick sweet potatoes: 40-50 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
It’s also important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of sweet potato you’re using. Some sweet potatoes, like Jewel sweet potatoes, may cook more quickly than others, like Beauregard sweet potatoes.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your candied yams to the next level:
- Use a mixture of white and brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or bourbon for extra depth of flavor.
- Use different spices, like ground cloves or allspice, to give your candied yams a unique flavor.
- Add some chopped nuts or dried fruit to the sweet potato mixture for extra texture and flavor.
- Use marshmallows or a marshmallow creme to add a sweet and fluffy topping to your candied yams.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking candied yams in the oven:
- Overcooking the sweet potatoes, which can make them dry and mushy.
- Undercooking the sweet potatoes, which can make them raw and unappetizing.
- Not using enough sugar, which can result in a bland and unflavorful dish.
- Not using enough liquid, which can result in a dry and crumbly dish.
Conclusion
Cooking candied yams in the oven is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for the holidays or everyday meals. Remember to choose the right sweet potatoes, use the right amount of sugar and liquid, and cook the sweet potatoes until they’re tender and caramelized. With a little practice and patience, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
| Sweet Potato Variety | Cooking Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Jewel sweet potatoes | 20-30 minutes | 400°F (200°C) |
| Beauregard sweet potatoes | 30-40 minutes | 400°F (200°C) |
| Garnet sweet potatoes | 40-50 minutes | 400°F (200°C) |
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right sweet potatoes, use the right amount of sugar and liquid, and cook the sweet potatoes until they’re tender and caramelized. With a little practice and patience, you can create a dish that’s perfect for the holidays or everyday meals.
What is the best type of yam to use for candying?
The best type of yam to use for candying is the Jewel or Beauregard variety. These types of yams are sweeter and have a softer, more moist texture than other varieties, making them ideal for candying. They also hold their shape well when cooked, which is important for achieving the perfect candied yam.
When selecting yams, look for ones that are firm and have no signs of bruising or soft spots. You can also use other varieties of yams, such as the Garnet or Covington, but they may not be as sweet or tender as the Jewel or Beauregard.
How do I prepare yams for candying?
To prepare yams for candying, start by washing them thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, dry the yams with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Use a vegetable peeler to peel the yams, and then slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds or cubes, depending on your desired shape.
It’s also a good idea to soak the sliced or cubed yams in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. After soaking, drain the yams and pat them dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. This step will help the yams cook more evenly and prevent them from becoming too sticky or syrupy during the candying process.
What is the best cooking method for candying yams?
The best cooking method for candying yams is to boil or steam them until they are tender, and then finish them in a sugar syrup. Boiling or steaming the yams helps to cook them evenly and prevents them from becoming too caramelized or browned. To boil the yams, place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender.
To steam the yams, place them in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover with a lid. Steam for 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender. Once the yams are cooked, remove them from the water or steamer and let them cool slightly. Then, finish them in a sugar syrup by simmering them in a mixture of sugar, water, and spices until they are coated in a sticky, caramelized glaze.
How do I make a sugar syrup for candying yams?
To make a sugar syrup for candying yams, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a medium saucepan. Add any desired spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly and turned a deep amber color.
You can also add other ingredients to the sugar syrup, such as brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup, to give it a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount of liquid in the syrup accordingly, as these ingredients can make the syrup more prone to crystallization. Once the syrup has cooled slightly, add the cooked yams and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until they are coated in a sticky, caramelized glaze.
How do I prevent candied yams from becoming too sticky or syrupy?
To prevent candied yams from becoming too sticky or syrupy, it’s essential to cook them until they are tender but still slightly firm. Overcooking the yams can cause them to become too soft and sticky, which can make them difficult to coat in the sugar syrup. It’s also important to not overcook the sugar syrup, as this can cause it to become too thick and sticky.
Another way to prevent candied yams from becoming too sticky or syrupy is to add a small amount of acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to the sugar syrup. This will help to balance out the sweetness of the syrup and prevent it from becoming too sticky or caramelized. You can also try adding a small amount of cornstarch or flour to the sugar syrup to help thicken it and prevent it from becoming too runny.
Can I make candied yams ahead of time?
Yes, you can make candied yams ahead of time, but it’s essential to store them properly to prevent them from becoming too sticky or syrupy. To make candied yams ahead of time, cook the yams and sugar syrup as directed, and then let them cool to room temperature. Transfer the yams to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours.
To reheat the candied yams, place them in a saucepan with a small amount of water or sugar syrup and simmer over low heat until they are warmed through. You can also reheat the yams in the oven by placing them in a covered dish and baking at 350°F (180°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until they are warmed through.
How do I serve candied yams?
Candied yams can be served as a side dish or used as a topping for other dishes, such as salads or yogurt parfaits. To serve candied yams as a side dish, place them in a serving dish and garnish with chopped nuts or fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme. You can also serve candied yams as a topping for other dishes, such as salads or yogurt parfaits, by spooning them over the top of the dish.
Candied yams can also be used as a topping for ice cream or frozen yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and pastries. To use candied yams as a topping for ice cream or frozen yogurt, simply spoon them over the top of the dessert and serve. To use candied yams as a filling for cakes and pastries, spoon them into the center of the dessert and top with whipped cream or a glaze.