Cooking Candied Yams to Perfection: A Step-by-Step Guide

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, making them a crowd-pleaser. But cooking candied yams can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re new to cooking or haven’t made them before. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to cook candied yams to perfection.

Choosing the Right Yams

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right yams. There are several types of yams, but the most commonly used for candied yams are Jewel or Beauregard yams. These yams are sweet, tender, and have a smooth, thin skin that’s easy to peel.

When selecting yams, look for ones that are firm, smooth, and free of bruises or blemishes. Avoid yams that are soft, wrinkled, or have signs of mold. You can find yams at most grocery stores, especially during the holiday season.

Preparing the Yams

Once you’ve selected your yams, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Here’s what you need to do:

• Wash the yams thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Dry the yams with a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Peel the yams using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. You can also leave the skin on if you prefer, but make sure to scrub it clean first.
• Cut the yams into 1-inch cubes or slices, depending on your desired texture.

Cooking the Yams

Now that your yams are prepared, it’s time to cook them. There are several ways to cook candied yams, but the most common method is to boil or steam them until they’re tender. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

• Place the yam cubes or slices in a large pot or steamer basket.
• Add enough water to cover the yams and bring to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
• Drain the yams and set them aside.

Candying the Yams

Now that your yams are cooked, it’s time to candy them. This is the fun part! Here’s what you need to do:

• In a large saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of water.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the syrup thickens slightly.
• Add the cooked yams to the syrup and toss to coat.
• Continue to simmer the yams in the syrup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they’re caramelized and tender.

Tips for Candying Yams

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when candying yams:

• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature (240°F). This will help prevent the syrup from crystallizing.
• Don’t overcrowd the saucepan, as this can cause the yams to stick together. Cook them in batches if necessary.
• Use a silicone spatula to toss the yams in the syrup, as this will help prevent them from breaking apart.

Adding Flavor to Your Candied Yams

While the basic recipe for candied yams is delicious on its own, you can also add other ingredients to give it more flavor. Here are a few ideas:

• Spices: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the syrup for extra warmth and depth.
• Citrus: Add a squeeze of fresh orange or lemon juice to the syrup for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts over the yams before serving for added crunch and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking candied yams, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. Here are a few:

• Overcooking the yams: This can make them mushy and unappetizing. Check the yams frequently during cooking to ensure they’re tender but still firm.
• Not using enough sugar: This can result in yams that are too bland or bitter. Use the right amount of sugar called for in the recipe, and adjust to taste.
• Not stirring the yams enough: This can cause the yams to stick together or develop hot spots. Stir the yams frequently during cooking to ensure they’re coated evenly in the syrup.

Serving and Storing Candied Yams

Once your candied yams are cooked, it’s time to serve them. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve the yams hot, garnished with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Serve the yams cold, as a side dish or dessert.
• Store the yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the yams for up to 2 months, and thaw them when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Cooking candied yams is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create delicious, tender, and flavorful candied yams that are perfect for any occasion. Remember to choose the right yams, cook them until they’re tender, and candy them in a sweet syrup. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can take your candied yams to the next level and impress your family and friends.

By following this recipe and using the right ingredients, you can create delicious candied yams that are sure to please. Happy cooking!

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 mold 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 the yams for candying?

To prepare the 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. Then, peel the yams using a vegetable peeler, making sure to remove any eyes or blemishes.

Once the yams are peeled, slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds or cubes, depending on your desired shape. Place the sliced yams in a large bowl and cover them with cold water to prevent them from turning brown.

What is the secret to achieving the perfect glaze on candied yams?

The secret to achieving the perfect glaze on candied yams is to use a combination of brown sugar, butter, and spices. The brown sugar provides a rich, caramel-like flavor, while the butter adds a creamy texture. The spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, add depth and warmth to the glaze.

To achieve the perfect glaze, it’s also important to cook the yams slowly over low heat, allowing the glaze to thicken and caramelize. This will help to create a sticky, syrupy glaze that coats the yams evenly.

Can I make candied yams ahead of time?

Yes, you can make candied yams ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving. Candied yams can be cooked up to a day in advance, but they should be refrigerated overnight and reheated before serving. This will help to prevent the yams from becoming too soft or mushy.

If you need to make candied yams ahead of time, it’s best to cook them until they’re almost tender, then refrigerate them overnight. The next day, reheat the yams in the oven or on the stovetop until they’re tender and the glaze is caramelized.

How do I prevent the yams from becoming too soft or mushy?

To prevent the yams from becoming too soft or mushy, it’s best to cook them slowly over low heat. This will help to break down the starches in the yams and create a tender, but still firm, texture. You can also add a little bit of acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to the glaze to help balance the sweetness and prevent the yams from becoming too soft.

It’s also important to not overcook the yams. Candied yams should be cooked until they’re tender, but still hold their shape. If you overcook the yams, they will become too soft and mushy.

Can I use a slow cooker to make candied yams?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make candied yams. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook candied yams because it allows you to cook them slowly over low heat, which helps to create a tender, caramelized glaze.

To make candied yams in a slow cooker, simply slice the yams and place them in the slow cooker with the glaze ingredients. Cook the yams on low for 6-8 hours, or until they’re tender and the glaze is caramelized.

How do I store leftover candied yams?

Leftover candied yams can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store leftover candied yams, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.

You can also freeze leftover candied yams for up to 3 months. To freeze candied yams, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. When you’re ready to serve the yams, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop.