Candies Yam

Candied yams - a delicious and popular side dish commonly found in restaurants in the USA, especially during the holiday season!

So, let's dive in and learn more about this tasty treat:

What are candied yams?

Candied yams are a sweet and savory dish made from yams that have been cooked in a sugar syrup, resulting in a sweet, caramelized, and tender treat. They're often served as a side dish, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

What's the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?

Yams and sweet potatoes are often confused with each other, but they're actually two different root vegetables. Yams are native to Africa and Asia, while sweet potatoes are native to the Americas. Sweet potatoes are sweeter and have a softer, more moist flesh than yams. In the USA, what's commonly labeled as "yams" in grocery stores are actually sweet potatoes!

How are candied yams made?

To make candied yams, yams or sweet potatoes are typically boiled or baked until tender, then coated in a sugar syrup made with brown sugar, butter, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The yams are then baked in the oven, creating a sweet, sticky, and caramelized crust.

What do candied yams taste like?

Candied yams are sweet, tender, and slightly caramelized, with a hint of spice. They're often served hot, topped with marshmallows, brown sugar, or a crunchy pecan streusel. The sweet and savory flavors make them a perfect side dish to balance out savory or spicy main courses.

Where can I find candied yams in restaurants?

Candied yams are a popular side dish in many American restaurants, especially during the holiday season. You can find them on menus in:

1. Southern-style restaurants

2. Soul food restaurants

3. Family restaurants

4. Holiday-themed restaurants

5. Some chain restaurants, like Cracker Barrel or Boston Market

How can I make candied yams at home?

Making candied yams at home is easier than you think! Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Boil or bake the yams until tender.

3. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the syrup thickens.

5. Coat the cooked yams in the sugar syrup and place them in a baking dish.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are caramelized and tender.

7. Top with marshmallows or pecans, if desired.

Now, go ahead and give candied yams a try!