Yams are a staple in many cuisines, particularly during the holidays. They’re a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. While fresh yams can be a bit tricky to work with, canned yams offer a convenient alternative. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to cook canned yams, including recipes and tips to make them a delicious side dish.
Why Choose Canned Yams?
Canned yams are a great option for several reasons:
- Convenience: Canned yams are pre-cooked and ready to use, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
- Long Shelf Life: Canned yams can be stored for up to 2 years, making them a great pantry staple.
- Affordability: Canned yams are generally cheaper than fresh yams, especially during the off-season.
- Nutritional Value: Canned yams are just as nutritious as fresh yams, with minimal loss of nutrients during the canning process.
Basic Cooking Methods for Canned Yams
Before we dive into recipes, let’s cover the basic cooking methods for canned yams:
Heating Canned Yams on the Stovetop
To heat canned yams on the stovetop, follow these steps:
- Open the can of yams and drain the liquid.
- Place the yams in a saucepan and add a small amount of water or broth.
- Heat the yams over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re warmed through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
Heating Canned Yams in the Microwave
To heat canned yams in the microwave, follow these steps:
- Open the can of yams and drain the liquid.
- Place the yams in a microwave-safe dish and add a small amount of water or broth.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
- Heat the yams on high for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re warmed through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
Heating Canned Yams in the Oven
To heat canned yams in the oven, follow these steps:
- Open the can of yams and drain the liquid.
- Place the yams in a baking dish and add a small amount of water or broth.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake the yams in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re warmed through.
- Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
Recipes Using Canned Yams
Now that we’ve covered the basic cooking methods, let’s move on to some delicious recipes using canned yams:
Classic Canned Yam Casserole
This recipe is a staple in many Southern households, particularly during the holidays.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of yams
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of marshmallows
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Open the can of yams and drain the liquid.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yams, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until the yams are coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
- Transfer the yam mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top the yams with marshmallows.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Canned Yam and Apple Crisp
This recipe is a delicious twist on the classic canned yam casserole.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of yams
- 1/2 cup of chopped apples
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of rolled oats
- 1/4 cup of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Open the can of yams and drain the liquid.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yams, chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until the yams and apples are coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
- Transfer the yam and apple mixture to a 9×9 inch baking dish.
- Top the mixture with rolled oats.
- Bake the crisp in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the oats are golden brown.
Tips and Variations for Cooking Canned Yams
Here are some tips and variations to make your canned yams even more delicious:
- Add a splash of citrus: Adding a squeeze of fresh orange or lemon juice can brighten up the flavor of your canned yams.
- Spice it up: Experiment with different spices, such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder, to add a unique flavor to your canned yams.
- Add some crunch: Top your canned yams with chopped nuts or seeds, such as pecans or sesame seeds, for added texture.
- Make it sweet: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to your canned yams for a sweet and sticky glaze.
Conclusion
Cooking canned yams is a simple and convenient way to add a delicious side dish to your meals. With these basic cooking methods and recipes, you can create a variety of tasty dishes using canned yams. Whether you’re looking for a classic casserole or a sweet and crunchy crisp, canned yams are a great option. So next time you’re planning a meal, consider reaching for a can of yams and getting creative in the kitchen.
What are the benefits of cooking canned yams?
Cooking canned yams is a convenient and delicious way to prepare a side dish. One of the main benefits of using canned yams is that they are already cooked, which saves time and effort in the kitchen. Additionally, canned yams are available year-round and can be stored for a long time, making them a great option for meal planning.
Canned yams are also a nutritious option, as they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a great choice for those looking for a healthy side dish. Furthermore, canned yams can be easily incorporated into a variety of recipes, from sweet dishes like pies and casseroles to savory dishes like stews and soups.
How do I cook canned yams?
Cooking canned yams is a straightforward process that requires minimal ingredients and equipment. To cook canned yams, simply drain the liquid from the can and place the yams in a saucepan or microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of water or broth to the pan, and then heat the yams over medium heat or in the microwave until they are warmed through.
You can also add flavorings and spices to the yams while they are cooking, such as brown sugar, cinnamon, or nutmeg. This will give the yams a delicious and aromatic flavor that complements a variety of main dishes. Additionally, you can mash or puree the yams after they are cooked to create a creamy and smooth side dish.
Can I add other ingredients to canned yams?
Yes, you can add a variety of ingredients to canned yams to enhance their flavor and texture. Some popular additions include brown sugar, marshmallows, and nuts, which give the yams a sweet and indulgent flavor. You can also add spices and herbs, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and thyme, to give the yams a savory and aromatic flavor.
Other ingredients you can add to canned yams include butter, cream, and cheese, which give the yams a rich and creamy texture. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots and green beans, to create a hearty and nutritious side dish. The key is to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to find the one that you enjoy the most.
Are canned yams a healthy option?
Canned yams can be a healthy option, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. Yams themselves are a nutritious food, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, some canned yams may contain added sugars, salt, and preservatives, which can decrease their nutritional value.
To make canned yams a healthier option, look for brands that are low in added sugars and salt. You can also rinse the yams with water before cooking to remove excess sodium. Additionally, be mindful of the ingredients you add to the yams while they are cooking, and opt for natural sweeteners and spices instead of refined sugars and artificial flavorings.
Can I use canned yams in place of fresh yams?
Yes, you can use canned yams in place of fresh yams in many recipes. Canned yams are already cooked, which makes them a convenient option for recipes that call for cooked yams. However, keep in mind that canned yams may have a softer texture and a blander flavor than fresh yams.
If you are looking for a substitute for fresh yams, you can also consider using frozen or dried yams. These options may have a more similar texture and flavor to fresh yams, and can be used in a variety of recipes. However, canned yams are still a great option for many dishes, and can be used as a convenient and delicious substitute for fresh yams.
How do I store leftover canned yams?
Leftover canned yams can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store leftover yams, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. You can also freeze leftover yams for up to three months, which is a great option if you want to use them in future meals.
When storing leftover yams, make sure to label the container with the date and contents, and to use airtight containers to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the yams. You can also consider portioning out the leftover yams into individual servings, which makes them easy to grab and reheat when you need them.
Can I cook canned yams in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook canned yams in a slow cooker. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook canned yams, as it allows you to cook them low and slow over a long period of time. To cook canned yams in a slow cooker, simply drain the liquid from the can and place the yams in the slow cooker. Add a small amount of water or broth to the slow cooker, and then cook the yams on low for 2-3 hours.
You can also add flavorings and spices to the yams while they are cooking in the slow cooker, such as brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This will give the yams a delicious and aromatic flavor that complements a variety of main dishes. Additionally, you can mash or puree the yams after they are cooked to create a creamy and smooth side dish.