When the first chill of fall fills the air, my thoughts drift to the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. That’s when I find myself craving Southern Candied Yams, a dish that has been a glorious centerpiece on my family’s holiday table for years. The moment those tender sweet potato slices simmer in a rich blend of brown sugar, warm spices, and a zing of orange juice concentrate, the whole kitchen comes alive with an aroma that’s simply irresistible.
This isn’t just any side dish—these yams are a celebration of flavors! Each bite delivers a sweet, buttery richness that melts in your mouth, making them a beloved staple not only for Thanksgiving gatherings but also for cozy dinners all year long. Best of all, they are straightforward to prepare, allowing you to serve up a little slice of Southern charm without the fuss. Let’s dive into the recipe and create something that’ll have everyone returning for seconds!
Why You’ll Love Southern Candied Yams
Irresistible Flavor: The marriage of sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and orange zest creates an unforgettable taste that dances on your palate.
Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Family Favorite: This comforting side dish has a universal appeal, making it a pleasant addition to any meal or gathering.
Versatile Serving: Pair them with roasted meats, or enjoy them as a dessert-like treat; the options are endless!
Aromatic Delight: The warm spices and citrus aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to the dinner table.
Make Ahead: Prepare this dish in advance for stress-free entertaining and let the flavors develop overnight!
Southern Candied Yams Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to make these delicious Southern Candied Yams!
For the Yams
- Sweet Potatoes – The star of the dish; choose small, firm ones for easier peeling.
- Butter – Unsalted is best to control sodium; it adds richness and helps with caramelization.
For the Sweetness
- Dark Brown Sugar – Provides deep flavor; a great option if you want a more robust sweetness.
- White Sugar – Balances the flavors and enhances the caramelization process.
For the Spices
- Cinnamon – A warm, familiar spice; adjust to your taste, but it’s essential for that classic kick.
- Nutmeg – Adds aromatic warmth; can be replaced with allspice for variation if needed.
- Ginger – Fresh ginger gives a zesty contrast to the sweetness; it’s a perfect complement!
- Salt – Just a pinch is crucial to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
For the Flavor Boost
- Vanilla Extract – A dash enriches the flavor; feel free to adjust based on your palate.
- Frozen Orange Juice Concentrate – This is the secret ingredient for that vibrant citrus note; it shouldn’t be skipped!
By gathering these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating the most delightful Southern Candied Yams that everyone will love!
How to Make Southern Candied Yams
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Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Scrub and peel the sweet potatoes before cutting them into ½-inch rounds. This step ensures even cooking and the perfect texture in your final dish. -
Combine Ingredients:
In a medium-heavy pot over medium-high heat, combine the yams, butter, dark brown sugar, white sugar, orange juice concentrate, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to mix everything well. -
Cook the Mixture:
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the yams to simmer for about 50 minutes or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. -
Thicken the Syrup:
Remove the lid and increase heat back to medium. Let it boil uncovered for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens and beautifully coats the yams. -
Keep Warm:
Remove the pot from heat and keep the yams warm in the oven until ready to serve. This will help maintain their tender texture and enhance flavors.
Optional: Sprinkle with chopped pecans for added texture!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Southern Candied Yams
Fridge: Store leftover Southern Candied Yams in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop for optimal flavor and texture.
Freezer: These yams can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring all air is removed.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw yams in the fridge overnight, then warm them gently on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if the syrup has thickened.
Make Ahead: Consider preparing the yams in advance; the flavors improve with time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Southern Candied Yams
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Sugar Adjustment: Taste and modify the sugar levels during cooking; everyone’s sweetness preference varies, so don’t hesitate to get it just right for you!
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Syrup Consistency: If the syrup gets too thick, simply add a small amount of water to achieve the desired consistency while ensuring the yams remain perfectly coated.
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Gentle Stirring: Be careful when stirring the yams after cooking; they can break apart easily. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently mix without mashing.
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Make Ahead Magic: This dish can be prepared up to three days in advance. The flavors deepen over time, making your Southern Candied Yams even more delightful when served!
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Keep Them Warm: If you plan to serve them later, keep the yams warm in the oven. This helps maintain their soft texture and prevents them from drying out.
Make Ahead Options
These Southern Candied Yams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can scrub, peel, and slice the sweet potatoes up to 3 days in advance. Simply keep them submerged in water in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can combine all other ingredients (butter, sugars, spices, and orange juice concentrate) ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just add the prepared sweet potatoes to the mixture, bring it to a boil, cover, and simmer until tender, followed by thickening the syrup as instructed. This way, you’ll have a deliciously effortless side dish ready to impress your family or guests!
Southern Candied Yams Variations
Feel free to enhance and customize your Southern Candied Yams with these delightful twists to cater to your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or margarine for a plant-based option while keeping the dish rich and satisfying.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a delightful crunch that complements the soft yams perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or chili powder to bring a warm heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.
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Apple Twist: For a fruity variation, swap the orange juice concentrate with apple juice concentrate, adding a slightly different but delicious sweetness to the dish.
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Marshmallow Topping: Just before serving, add mini marshmallows on top and give them a quick broil for a delightful toasted finish that adds a sweet, gooey layer.
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Herbal Infusion: Infuse the yams with fresh rosemary or thyme, adding a unique herbal note that beautifully enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace some or all of the sugars with maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness that pairs beautifully with the yams.
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Citrus Medley: Mix frozen orange juice concentrate with lemon or lime juice for a zesty tang that brightens up the sweetness and adds extra depth of flavor.
What to Serve with Southern Candied Yams?
Creating the perfect meal is all about balance, and these smoky-sweet yams will elevate your dining experience in delightful ways.
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Roasted Chicken: A juicy, herbed roast adds savory depth to the sweetness of the yams, creating a harmonious pair that guests will love.
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Collard Greens: The slight bitterness and earthy notes of collard greens complement the sweet, buttery yams perfectly, providing a traditional Southern flair.
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Cornbread: Warm, crumbly cornbread makes for a classic pairing, soaking up the luscious syrup and rounding out your meal beautifully.
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Grilled Pork Chops: The smoky flavor of grilled pork contrasts wonderfully with the caramelized sweetness of the yams, offering a delightful balance on the plate.
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Green Bean Almondine: This fresh, crunchy dish adds a pop of color and texture, making for a visually appealing, well-rounded meal.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the Southern Candied Yams, creating a festive combination!
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Sweet Tea: A chilled glass of sweet tea brings a classic Southern drink to the table, delighting your palate and enhancing the meal.
Southern Candied Yams Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sweet potatoes for Southern Candied Yams?
Look for small, firm sweet potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin. If you notice any soft spots, those yams might be past their prime.
What is the best way to store leftover Southern Candied Yams?
After your meal, allow the yams to cool down completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to retain their delicious texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Southern Candied Yams, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! Allow the yams to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of water if they seem too thick.
What if the syrup for my yams becomes too thick during cooking?
If you find that the syrup thickens too much, simply add a small amount of water—start with a tablespoon and stir it in. This will help bring the syrup back to the right consistency, ensuring your yams are nicely coated and luscious!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when making Southern Candied Yams?
While this recipe doesn’t have specific dietary restrictions, be aware of potential allergies to ingredients like nutmeg or spices. If serving to guests, it’s always a good idea to inquire about any food allergies beforehand.
Can I make Southern Candied Yams ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them up to 3 days in advance! Just store them in the fridge, and reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. The flavors actually deepen and improve, making them even more delightful!
Irresistible Southern Candied Yams Bursting with Citrus Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Scrub and peel the sweet potatoes before cutting them into ½-inch rounds.
- In a medium-heavy pot over medium-high heat, combine the yams, butter, dark brown sugar, white sugar, orange juice concentrate, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to mix.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the yams to simmer for about 50 minutes or until they’re tender.
- Remove the lid and increase heat back to medium. Let it boil uncovered for about 10 minutes until the syrup thickens.
- Remove the pot from heat and keep the yams warm in the oven until ready to serve.