Introduction
Imagine the aroma of sweet potatoes caramelizing in the oven, the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen, and the anticipation of a delightful holiday feast. That’s the magic of candied yams, a beloved dish that brings comfort and joy to many tables, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Today, we’ll explore the art of creating the perfect candied yams recipe that combines tradition with a modern twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Our best candied yams recipe with marshmallows offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, creating a dish that is sure to impress your guests. This easy southern candied yams recipe captures the essence of Southern hospitality in every bite, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. What sets this recipe apart is its ability to deliver that classic candied yams taste while being healthy and free from refined sugar, catering to various dietary needs.
Whether you’re following a vegan lifestyle or looking for a low-carb option, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your preferences, making it a versatile and inclusive choice for all. The gluten-free candied yams recipe ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy this flavorful dish without any worries.
Ingredients
For this homemade candied yams for Thanksgiving recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– Sweet potatoes
– Coconut oil
– Maple syrup
– Cinnamon
– Nutmeg
– Vanilla extract
– Salt
– Mini marshmallows (optional)
Feel free to substitute ingredients according to your dietary preferences. You can use coconut sugar as an alternative to maple syrup for a diabetic-friendly candied yams recipe. Additionally, you can explore different spices like ginger or allspice to add a unique twist to the traditional flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with coconut oil.
2. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference.
3. In a bowl, mix melted coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
4. Toss the sweet potatoes in the mixture until evenly coated.
5. Arrange the sweet potatoes in the baking dish and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
7. If desired, top the candied yams with mini marshmallows and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
8. Serve hot and enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors of this classic dish!
Expert Tips for Success
– To enhance the flavors, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the recipe.
– For a quicker cooking time, you can parboil the sweet potatoes before baking them.
– Be mindful of the sweetness level and adjust the maple syrup according to your taste preferences.
– For a decadent touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the marshmallows before broiling.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize this recipe further, here are some creative variations you can try:
– Swap the sweet potatoes for butternut squash or carrots for a different flavor profile.
– Use honey instead of maple syrup for a paleo-friendly version of the dish.
– Experiment with different toppings such as coconut flakes or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
These candied yams pair wonderfully with roasted turkey or ham, making them a perfect side dish for your holiday feast. For a complete meal, serve them alongside green beans, cranberry sauce, and fluffy dinner rolls. To complement the sweetness of the yams, consider serving a crisp apple cider or a sparkling ginger lemonade.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the candied yams a day in advance and reheat them in the oven before serving. Just be sure to add the marshmallows right before broiling for the best texture.
Q: Are candied yams and sweet potatoes the same thing?
A: While the terms are often used interchangeably, yams and sweet potatoes are botanically different. In this recipe, we use sweet potatoes to create the classic candied yams dish.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on your culinary journey to create the best candied yams recipe with marshmallows, remember to infuse each step with love and care. This dish not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul with its rich flavors and comforting aromas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of home, these candied yams will surely become a staple on your holiday table. Embrace the tradition, savor the sweetness, and share the joy of good food with your loved ones.
Candied Yams Recipe
A delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, these healthy candied yams with marshmallows offer a modern twist on a classic holiday dish. Made with sweet potatoes, coconut oil, maple syrup, and warm spices, this recipe captures the essence of Southern hospitality while catering to various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 3 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with coconut oil.
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Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into rounds or cubes.
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In a bowl, mix melted coconut oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt.
-
Toss the sweet potatoes in the mixture until evenly coated.
-
Arrange the sweet potatoes in the baking dish and cover with foil.
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Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender.
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Top with mini marshmallows and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
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Serve hot and enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors!
