Yams with marshmallows on top – a classic dish that’s both sweet and savory, perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. This beloved side dish has been a staple in many American households for decades, and its popularity endures to this day. In this article, we’ll explore the history of yams with marshmallows, provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook them to perfection, and offer some valuable tips and variations to make this dish truly unforgettable.
A Brief History of Yams with Marshmallows
The origins of yams with marshmallows are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. One story behind this dish is that it was created by the marshmallow company, Jet-Puffed, as a way to promote their product. The company allegedly developed a recipe that paired marshmallows with sweet potatoes, which were abundant and affordable at the time. The dish quickly gained popularity, and soon, yams with marshmallows became a staple at family gatherings and holiday meals.
Choosing the Right Yams
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right type of yams. There are several varieties of yams, but for this dish, you’ll want to use sweet yams or Jewel yams. These types of yams are sweeter and softer than other varieties, making them perfect for cooking with marshmallows.
When selecting yams, look for ones that are firm and free of bruises or blemishes. You can also choose yams that are already pre-washed and pre-cut, which can save you time in the kitchen.
Yam Varieties
Here are some popular yam varieties that you can use for this dish:
- Sweet yams: These are the most commonly used yams for cooking with marshmallows. They’re sweet, soft, and have a smooth, thin skin.
- Jewel yams: These yams are similar to sweet yams but have a slightly sweeter flavor and a more vibrant orange color.
- Beauregard yams: These yams are sweet and nutty, with a slightly firmer texture than sweet yams.
Cooking Yams with Marshmallows: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the cooking process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook yams with marshmallows:
Ingredients
- 2-3 large yams
- 1 cup of mini marshmallows
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and peel the yams, then slice them into 1-inch thick rounds.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced yams, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Toss until the yams are evenly coated with the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter and marshmallows.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the yam slices in a single layer. You may need to overlap them slightly to fit them all in the dish.
- Pour the marshmallow mixture over the yams, making sure they’re all coated with the marshmallow topping.
- Bake the yams in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re tender and the marshmallows are golden brown.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make your yams with marshmallows truly unforgettable:
Tips
- To prevent the marshmallows from burning, cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the marshmallows to brown.
- If you want a crispy marshmallow topping, broil the yams for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- To make this dish more substantial, add some chopped nuts or dried fruit to the marshmallow mixture.
Variations
- Maple syrup variation: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Pecan variation: Add some chopped pecans to the marshmallow mixture for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Coconut variation: Sprinkle some shredded coconut over the marshmallow topping for a tropical twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking yams with marshmallows, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
Overcooking the Yams
One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the yams. This can make them dry and unappetizing. To avoid this, check the yams regularly during the baking time, and remove them from the oven when they’re tender but still slightly firm.
Not Using the Right Type of Marshmallows
Using the wrong type of marshmallows can also affect the outcome of this dish. Mini marshmallows are the best type to use, as they melt and brown evenly. Avoid using large marshmallows, as they can be too dense and may not melt properly.
Conclusion
Cooking yams with marshmallows is a simple yet delicious process that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a dish that’s both sweet and savory, with a crispy marshmallow topping that’s sure to impress. Remember to choose the right type of yams, avoid common mistakes, and experiment with different variations to make this dish truly unforgettable.
What is the origin of cooking yams with marshmallows?
Cooking yams with marshmallows is a popular dish that originated in the United States, particularly during the holidays. The exact origin of this dish is unclear, but it is believed to have started in the early 20th century. One story behind its creation is that it was invented by a food company looking to promote their marshmallows and canned yams.
The dish quickly gained popularity due to its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors. It became a staple at many American holiday gatherings, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Over time, various recipes and variations of the dish have emerged, but the core ingredients of yams and marshmallows have remained the same.
What type of yams are best for cooking with marshmallows?
When it comes to cooking yams with marshmallows, it’s essential to choose the right type of yams. The most commonly used yams for this dish are Jewel or Beauregard yams. These varieties have a naturally sweet flavor and a smooth, creamy texture that pairs well with the marshmallows.
Other types of yams, such as Garnet or Covington, can also be used, but they may have a slightly different flavor and texture. It’s worth noting that what are commonly referred to as “yams” in the United States are actually sweet potatoes. True yams are a different type of root vegetable that is not as widely available in the US.
How do I prepare the yams for cooking with marshmallows?
To prepare the yams for cooking with marshmallows, start by washing and peeling them. Then, slice or dice the yams into desired shapes and sizes. Some people prefer to boil or bake the yams before adding the marshmallows, while others like to cook them together in the oven.
Regardless of the cooking method, make sure to cook the yams until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. This will help them absorb the flavors of the marshmallows and other ingredients. You can also add spices and seasonings to the yams before cooking to enhance their flavor.
What type of marshmallows are best for cooking with yams?
When it comes to cooking yams with marshmallows, it’s best to use mini marshmallows. These small marshmallows are designed to melt and caramelize easily, creating a sweet and sticky glaze on top of the yams. Regular-sized marshmallows can also be used, but they may not melt as evenly.
It’s also worth noting that some recipes call for toasted marshmallows, which can add a nice texture and flavor to the dish. To toast marshmallows, simply place them under the broiler for a few seconds or use a kitchen torch to caramelize them.
Can I add other ingredients to my yams and marshmallows?
One of the best things about cooking yams with marshmallows is that you can customize the dish to your taste. Some popular ingredients to add to yams and marshmallows include brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest. You can also try adding other spices, such as ginger or cloves, to give the dish a unique flavor.
Other ingredients, such as chopped nuts or dried cranberries, can also be added to provide texture and flavor contrast. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find your favorite.
How do I store leftover yams and marshmallows?
If you have leftover yams and marshmallows, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the yams in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the yams and marshmallows for up to 2 months.
When reheating frozen yams and marshmallows, make sure to thaw them first and then reheat in the oven or microwave. This will help prevent the marshmallows from becoming soggy or unevenly heated.
Can I make yams and marshmallows ahead of time?
Yes, you can make yams and marshmallows ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the yams and prepare the marshmallows separately. Cook the yams according to your recipe, then let them cool. Prepare the marshmallows by toasting or melting them, then set them aside.
To assemble the dish, simply place the cooked yams in a baking dish and top with the marshmallows. You can then refrigerate or freeze the dish until ready to serve. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the yams and marshmallows in the oven or microwave until warmed through.