Candy Yams: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciously Sweet and Creamy Yams

Right, let’s talk candy yams. They’re not just a festive staple, they’re a year-round treat for anyone who loves a good dose of sweet and creamy goodness. I’m talking about those fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth yams, perfectly seasoned and drenched in a luxurious sauce. They’re the kind of dish that makes you want to lick the plate clean, and honestly, who can blame you? This guide is your complete roadmap to candy yam heaven. We’ll cover everything from choosing the perfect yams to creating that irresistible topping, and even some creative variations to keep you coming back for more. So, grab a spoon, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of candy yams!

(Part 1) Choosing Your Sweet Potato Stars

The foundation of any great candy yam dish lies in choosing the right sweet potatoes. Here’s what you need to know about those vibrant orange tubers:

Sweet Potatoes vs. Yams

First off, let’s clear up a common misconception. The term “candy yams” is a bit of a misnomer, especially here in the UK. We use “yams” for those starchy, less sweet tubers you might find in Caribbean dishes. The “yams” you’ll want for candy yams are actually sweet potatoes, known for their vibrant orange flesh and natural sweetness.

The Perfect Sweet Potato: A Guide to Picking

When selecting your sweet potatoes, look for firm, unblemished tubers with smooth skin. Avoid any that are soft, mushy, or have bruises or mold. You want them to cook evenly and maintain that beautiful, smooth texture.

Variety Matters: Exploring Sweet Potato Options

Different varieties of sweet potatoes offer unique characteristics, influencing the final flavor and texture of your dish:

• Beauregard: A classic choice, with a vibrant orange flesh, it’s known for its sweetness and soft texture. It works well for both baking and frying.
• Jewel: This variety has a rich, deep orange flesh and an intense sweetness. It’s a bit denser than others, making it ideal for roasting.
• Covenant: Super sweet and with a vibrant orange flesh, Covenant tends to be on the softer side, making it perfect for recipes where you’ll be mashing them.

(Part 2) Preparing Your Sweet Potatoes for Cooking

You’ve got your sweet potatoes; now let’s get them ready for their transformation into delicious candy yams. Here’s how:

Scrubbing for a Clean Start

First, give your sweet potatoes a good wash. A thorough scrub with a vegetable brush is best to remove any dirt or debris. Think of it as a pre-cooking spa treatment for your yams.

To Peel or Not to Peel: Your Choice

Now comes the decision: peel or leave the skin on? Peeling will give you a smoother, more uniform texture, while leaving the skin on adds a bit of rustic charm and extra fiber.

For a classic look, go with peeling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try leaving the skin on. Just make sure to scrub it thoroughly and remove any tough spots.

Cutting for Even Cooking

Once you’ve decided on your skin strategy, it’s time to cut them. For baking, cutting into cubes or wedges helps them cook evenly. If you’re making a casserole, larger chunks will work best.

My tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sizes and shapes. You might discover your favourite way to cut them.

(Part 3) Baking: The Classic Method for Candy Yams

For me, baking is the go-to method for candy yams. It’s simple, reliable, and delivers that beautifully soft, fluffy result. Here’s how to achieve baking perfection:

Preheat for Success

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). We want it nice and hot to ensure a lovely golden brown finish.

Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grab your favourite baking dish and give it a good greasing. This will prevent your sweet potatoes from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Arrange for Even Cooking

Arrange your cut sweet potatoes in a single layer in the baking dish. This ensures they all cook evenly, key to achieving that perfect, fluffy texture.

A Splash of Water for Moisture

I like to add a small amount of water to the bottom of the baking dish. It helps create steam, keeping the yams moist and tender. Just a splash will do.

Baking Time: Patience is Key

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as every oven has its own personality.

Testing for Doneness

The best way to check for doneness is to pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork. If it goes in easily, you’re good to go.

Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before adding your sweet and savory topping.

(Part 4) Boiling: A Quick and Easy Alternative

If you’re short on time or prefer a different method, boiling is a great option. It’s fast, easy, and still yields those delightful tender yams. Here’s how:

Fill the Pot, Bring the Boil

Start by filling a large pot with enough water to cover your sweet potatoes. Make sure it’s a pot that can comfortably hold them. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

Gentle Entry for the Yams

Carefully add your sweet potatoes to the boiling water. Use a slotted spoon to gently lower them in, avoiding splatters.

Simmer to Tenderness

Cover the pot, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender. Check for doneness with a fork.

Drain and Mash

Once the yams are cooked, drain them in a colander. Then, use a fork or potato masher to mash them until they’re smooth and creamy.

(Part 5) Microwaving: For a Speedy Sweet Treat

When you’re in a rush and don’t have time for baking or boiling, microwaving is your speed demon. Here’s how to make it work:

Prick for Prevention

Start by pricking your sweet potatoes all over with a fork. This helps prevent them from exploding in the microwave. Trust me, it’s a real kitchen disaster waiting to happen!

Wrap for Moisture Control

Next, wrap your sweet potatoes in a few layers of paper towels. This will absorb any excess moisture and keep them from getting soggy.

Microwave Until Tender

Pop your wrapped sweet potatoes into the microwave and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender. The time will vary depending on the size and power of your microwave.

Doneness Check: The Fork Test

To make sure they’re cooked through, pierce them with a fork. If it goes in easily, they’re ready.

Once they’re cooked, let them cool for a few minutes before peeling and mashing them. And that’s all there is to it!

(Part 6) The Sweet and Savoury Topping: Your Candy Yam Crown

Now, we’re getting to the fun part: the topping! This is where you can really personalize your candy yams and create your signature dish.

The Classic Butter and Brown Sugar Topping: A Timeless Delight

Let's start with the classic: butter and brown sugar. It’s simple, timeless, and absolutely delicious.

Melting the Butter

First, melt some butter in a saucepan over medium heat. You want it melted, but not too hot.

Adding the Brown Sugar

Once the butter is melted, add your brown sugar and whisk it together until it’s dissolved and smooth. You want a lovely, golden-brown sauce.

Flavoring with Spices: A Warm Touch

Now, here's where you can get creative. Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a little ginger to give your topping a warm, spicy kick. Experiment and find your perfect blend.

A Sweet and Savoury Twist: Marshmallows and Pecans

For a sweet and savoury twist, try adding marshmallows and pecans to your topping. They add a delightful texture and a hint of saltiness that balances out the sweetness.

Melting the Marshmallows

Melt the marshmallows in your butter and brown sugar mixture. The heat will make them melt and create a gooey, sticky sauce.

Adding the Pecans

Stir in some chopped pecans towards the end. They add a nice crunch to the topping and complement the sweetness of the marshmallows.

(Part 7) FAQs: Your Candy Yam Questions Answered

Q1: Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar for the Topping?

Absolutely! While brown sugar is the classic choice, you can use white sugar, maple syrup, or even honey. Just adjust the amount to your taste.

Q2: What If I Don't Have Pecans?

No worries! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even chopped up dried cranberries for a delicious variation.

Q3: Can I Make the Topping Ahead of Time?

You sure can! Simply combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and spices in a saucepan and heat them over low heat. Then, pour the topping into a container and refrigerate it until you're ready to use it.

Q4: How Do I Store Leftover Candy Yams?

Store leftover candy yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I Freeze Candy Yams?

Yes, you can freeze them! Simply let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, defrost them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat them in the oven or microwave.

(Part 8) The Final Touch: Serving and Enjoying Your Candy Yam Creation

Alright, your candy yams are ready to go! You've got your perfectly cooked sweet potatoes, your delicious topping, and your serving dish. Now it's time to put it all together and enjoy!

Spooning the Topping: Generously

Carefully spoon your warm topping over your cooked sweet potatoes. I like to use a generous amount, but you can adjust it to your liking.

Garnishing with a Sprinkling of Nuts

For an extra special touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a bit of crunch.

Serving it Up: Warm and Wonderful

Serve your candy yams warm and enjoy! They're perfect as a side dish, a dessert, or even as a snack.

Personally, I love them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It's the ultimate comfort food indulgence!

(Part 9) Variations and Inspiration: Candy Yam Creativity

Let's get creative and explore some delicious variations on the classic candy yam recipe:

Spiced Rum Candy Yams: A Boozy Twist

For a boozy twist, add a splash of rum to your topping. The rum will add a warm, complex flavor that complements the sweetness of the yams.

Candy Yams with Coconut Cream: Tropical Paradise

For a tropical touch, replace the butter and brown sugar topping with a creamy coconut cream sauce. It's a delightful and refreshing twist on the classic.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel: A Hearty Delight

For a more substantial dish, bake your sweet potatoes in a casserole dish and top them with a crunchy pecan streusel. It's a perfect way to enjoy candy yams as a main course.

(Part 10) Beyond the Plate: Candy Yams in Other Dishes

Candy yams are so versatile that they can be used in a variety of dishes beyond just a simple side or dessert. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Candy Yam Pie: A Sweet and Savory Pastry

Combine your perfectly cooked sweet potatoes with a creamy filling and a flaky crust for a delicious pie that’s sure to impress.

Sweet Potato Pancakes: A Savory Start to Your Day

Whip up a batch of sweet potato pancakes for a satisfying breakfast treat. They’re a great way to start your day with a sweet and savory flavor.

Sweet Potato Smoothie: A Healthy and Delicious Blend

For a healthy and delicious smoothie, blend cooked sweet potatoes with your favorite fruits, yogurt, and spices. It's a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.

(Part 11) A Final Word: Your Candy Yam Journey Begins

So, there you have it! The ultimate guide to making delicious candy yams. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this guide will help you create a sweet and savory masterpiece that will impress your family and friends.

Remember, the key to making perfect candy yams is to use high-quality sweet potatoes, cook them evenly, and top them with a flavorful sauce. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings. The possibilities are endless!

So, get in the kitchen, put on some music, and let's make some candy yams!