Cooking Candy Yams to Perfection: A Comprehensive Guide

Candy yams, also known as sweet potatoes, are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. They are a staple in many cuisines, particularly in the Southern United States, where they are often served as a side dish during the holidays. In this article, we will explore the different methods of cooking candy yams, including boiling, baking, roasting, and microwaving. We will also provide tips and tricks for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Choosing the Right Candy Yams

Before we dive into the cooking methods, it’s essential to choose the right candy yams. Look for yams that are firm and have a smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid yams that are soft, wrinkled, or have visible bruises. You can also choose between different varieties of candy yams, such as Jewel, Beauregard, or Covington. Each variety has its unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.

Preparing Candy Yams for Cooking

Once you have chosen your candy yams, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:

Wash the yams thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
Pat the yams dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Use a vegetable brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt or stains.
Trim the ends of the yams to create a flat surface.

Boiling Candy Yams

Boiling is a simple and quick way to cook candy yams. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Fill a large pot with enough cold water to cover the yams.
Add a pinch of salt to the water to help bring out the natural sweetness of the yams.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
Drain the yams and let them cool.

Boiling Time Chart

Baking Candy Yams

Baking is a great way to cook candy yams, especially if you want to bring out their natural sweetness. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub the yams clean and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Poke some holes in the yams with a fork to allow steam to escape.
Rub the yams with a little bit of oil and sprinkle with salt.
Place the yams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.

Baking Time Chart

Roasting Candy Yams

Roasting is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of candy yams. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Scrub the yams clean and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Cut the yams into 1-inch cubes or slices.
Toss the yams with a little bit of oil, salt, and your choice of spices (such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or paprika).
Spread the yams out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Roast for 20-30 minutes, or until the yams are tender and caramelized.

Roasting Time Chart

Microwaving Candy Yams

Microwaving is a quick and easy way to cook candy yams. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Scrub the yams clean and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Poke some holes in the yams with a fork to allow steam to escape.
Cook the yams on high for 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Let the yams stand for 1-2 minutes before serving.

Microwaving Time Chart

Tips and Tricks for Cooking Candy Yams

Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor:

Use the right cooking method: Choose the cooking method that best suits your needs. Boiling is great for large quantities, while baking and roasting are perfect for bringing out the natural sweetness.
Don’t overcook: Candy yams can become mushy and unappetizing if overcooked. Check for doneness frequently to avoid overcooking.
Add flavorings: Add a pinch of salt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to bring out the natural sweetness of the yams.
Experiment with spices: Try adding different spices, such as nutmeg, paprika, or garlic powder, to give your candy yams a unique flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking candy yams:

Not washing the yams thoroughly: Make sure to wash the yams clean to remove any dirt or debris.
Not patting the yams dry: Pat the yams dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and prevent steaming instead of roasting.
Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between the yams to allow for even cooking.

Conclusion

Cooking candy yams is a simple and rewarding process that can be done in a variety of ways. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Whether you prefer boiling, baking, roasting, or microwaving, there’s a method that’s sure to suit your needs. So go ahead, give candy yams a try, and enjoy the delicious and nutritious benefits they have to offer!

What is the best way to choose candy yams for cooking?

When selecting candy yams, look for those that are firm and have no visible signs of damage or decay. The skin should be smooth and even in color, with no soft spots or bruises. You can also gently squeeze the yam to check for firmness. If it yields to pressure, it may be overripe.

In terms of size, choose yams that are roughly the same size so that they cook evenly. You can also consider the color of the yam, as some varieties have a sweeter or nuttier flavor than others. For example, the ‘Jewel’ variety is known for its sweet, moist flesh, while the ‘Beauregard’ variety has a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor.

How do I store candy yams before cooking?

Candy yams should be stored in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near a heat source, as this can cause them to spoil more quickly. You can store them in a paper bag or a breathable container, such as a mesh bag or a cardboard box with holes.

It’s also important to keep candy yams away from other fruits and vegetables, as they can absorb moisture and ethylene gas from these foods, which can cause them to spoil more quickly. If you won’t be using your candy yams for a few weeks, you can also store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for longer.

What is the best way to peel candy yams?

The best way to peel candy yams is to use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Start by washing the yam under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use the peeler or knife to remove the skin in long, smooth strokes, starting at one end of the yam and working your way around.

If you’re having trouble removing the skin, you can also try soaking the yam in cold water for about 30 minutes. This can help loosen the skin and make it easier to remove. Alternatively, you can cook the yam with the skin on and then peel it after it’s cooked.

How do I boil candy yams to perfection?

To boil candy yams, start by filling a large pot with enough cold water to cover the yams. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully add the yams to the pot.

Cook the yams for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the yam. If it slides in easily, the yam is cooked. If not, continue to cook the yam in 5-minute increments until it’s tender.

Can I roast candy yams in the oven?

Yes, you can roast candy yams in the oven. To do this, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the yams clean and pat them dry with a paper towel. Then, poke some holes in the yams with a fork to allow steam to escape.

Place the yams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast them in the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. You can also wrap the yams in foil and roast them for 30-40 minutes, or until they’re tender.

How do I mash candy yams?

To mash candy yams, start by boiling or roasting them until they’re tender. Then, let them cool for a few minutes before peeling them. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the yams in a large bowl. You can also add some butter, milk, or cream to the yams to make them creamier.

As you mash the yams, be careful not to over-mix them. This can make them gluey and unappetizing. Instead, stop mashing once the yams are mostly smooth, with a few chunks remaining. You can also add some seasonings, such as salt, pepper, or nutmeg, to the yams to give them more flavor.

Can I make candy yams ahead of time?

Yes, you can make candy yams ahead of time. If you’re boiling or roasting the yams, you can cook them up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

If you’re mashing the yams, you can also make them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, be aware that the yams may become less creamy and more gluey after refrigeration. To prevent this, you can add a little more butter or milk to the yams before reheating them.