The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Candy Yams (Sweet Potatoes)

Let’s be honest, there's something undeniably comforting about digging into a warm, sweet, and sticky candy yam. It’s a dish that transports you back to childhood memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. And for me, it’s a culinary journey that I love to share with others.

So, today, we're diving into the world of candy yams (or as most folks know them, sweet potatoes), and I'm going to show you how to cook them to absolute perfection. We're talking about unlocking the sweet, caramelized flavour, mastering the perfect glaze, and whipping up a dish that will leave everyone wanting seconds (or maybe even thirds).

Ready to join me?

Part 1: Finding the Perfect Yams

Picking Your Yams: More Than Just a Sweet Potato

You know what's truly frustrating? Picking up a bag of yams at the supermarket only to find they're not the kind you need! It's happened to me a time or two, so let's be clear: when it comes to candy yams, we're looking for the ones labelled ‘sweet potatoes.’ Yes, there are yams, but they're a different root vegetable entirely, and they won’t give you the delicious caramelized flavor we’re after.

The Sweet Potato Family: A Variety of Choices

Sweet potatoes come in all sorts of varieties, each with its own unique flavor and texture. You've got your classic orange-fleshed ones, the striking purple-fleshed ones, and even white ones. Honestly, it's a matter of personal preference. I'm a big fan of the orange-fleshed ones, particularly the Beauregard variety. They have a rich, sweet flavor that's perfect for candy yams. Plus, they're firm, which means they hold their shape beautifully during cooking.

Checking for Freshness: A Test of Texture

When you’re picking your yams, always go for the firm ones. Give them a gentle squeeze. They should feel solid and free of any soft spots. That’s your sign they're fresh and ready for cooking.

Storing Your Yams: Keeping Them Fresh

After you've got your perfect yams, it’s time to store them properly. A cool, dark place like a pantry is ideal. They can last for a couple of weeks this way, but I recommend using them within a week or two for the best flavour.

Part 2: Getting Ready to Cook

Prepping Your Yams: Scrub, Slice, and Dice

Before you start cooking, you need to prep your yams. Give them a good wash under cold running water, then use a vegetable brush to scrub away any dirt or stubborn bits. Don’t be shy! Give them a good scrub.

Next, it’s time to slice or dice them. This is totally up to you! Some folks prefer chunky pieces, while others like them diced. Remember, the smaller the pieces, the faster they'll cook.

cooking time: A Guide to Doneness

You're probably wondering, “How long do I cook these yams?” Well, that depends on the size of the pieces and your preferred cooking method.

The best way to check for doneness is to poke them with a fork. If it slides in easily, they're ready to go! If you're unsure, give them a bit more time in the oven or on the stovetop.

Part 3: Roasting for That Perfect Caramelized Flavor

Roasting: The Classic Method

Roasting is my favourite way to cook candy yams. It really brings out that delicious sweetness and gives them a beautiful caramelized flavour.

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, toss the yams with some olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will give them a nice crispy exterior and season them well. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they're not crowded. If they're all piled up on top of each other, they'll steam instead of roast.

Roast them for about 45 minutes to an hour, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they're ready when they’re tender and slightly browned on the edges.

Roasting with a Glaze: Taking Things Up a Notch

If you're looking to elevate your candy yams to the next level, try roasting them with a glaze. You can use a store-bought glaze, or you can make your own. I adore a simple maple syrup glaze with a hint of orange zest. It adds a touch of citrusy sweetness that complements the yams perfectly.

Just before you take the yams out of the oven, brush them with the glaze and roast for another 5-10 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly. You’ll be amazed at the difference a glaze makes!

Part 4: Mashed Candy Yams: A Creamy Delight

Mashed: A Classic Way to Enjoy Candy Yams

Mashed candy yams are a classic for a reason. They're creamy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious. They make a fantastic side dish or the base for many other recipes.

Once your yams are roasted, let them cool slightly, then mash them with a fork or potato masher until they're smooth. Add a dollop of butter, a splash of milk or cream, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. I also love adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavour.

Mashed Candy Yams: Beyond the Side Dish

Mashed candy yams are so versatile! They’re perfect with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even fish. Add them to casseroles, soups, stews, or even your breakfast pancakes or waffles for a sweet and savoury twist!

Part 5: Baking Your Yams: A Sweet Treat

Baking: A Delicious Dessert Option

Baking candy yams is a fantastic way to create a delicious dessert. You can bake them whole or slice them and bake them in a casserole dish.

If you're baking them whole, wrap each yam in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until tender. Then, unwrap them, brush with a glaze, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.

For sliced yams, toss them with a bit of butter, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake in a casserole dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until tender and browned.

A Crunch Factor: Adding Toasted Nuts

To add a bit of crunch to your baked yams, try adding toasted pecans or walnuts. The salty and nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.

Part 6: Sweetening Your Yams: More Than Just Sugar

The Sweetness Factor: A Guide to Sweeteners

Now, let's talk about the heart and soul of candy yams – the sweetening. This is where the magic happens, where your yams transform from simple root vegetables into a delicious treat. You've got your classic choices like brown sugar, maple syrup, and honey, but I encourage you to get creative and experiment with different flavors.

Sugar: A Classic Choice

Brown sugar is a classic choice for candy yams. It adds a rich, caramel-like flavour that's hard to beat. Just be mindful of the sugar content, as it can quickly turn your yams into a sugary indulgence.

Maple Syrup: A Natural Sweetener

For a more natural sweetness, maple syrup is a fantastic option. It adds a touch of depth to the flavour and brings out the sweetness of the yams without being overly sweet.

Honey: A Subtly Sweet Touch

If you prefer a more subtle sweetness, honey is a great choice. It adds a touch of floral notes to the flavour and balances well with the earthiness of the yams.

Spices: Adding Warmth and Depth

Don't forget to add some spices! Cinnamon is a classic addition to candy yams, but you can also try other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of a kick.

Part 7: Glazing Your Yams: The Final Touches

The Glaze: A Game-Changer

A good glaze can take your candy yams from delicious to absolutely irresistible. It’s the final touch that adds a layer of sweetness, shine, and visual appeal.

Glaze Options: Explore the Possibilities

Classic brown sugar glaze: Simply combine brown sugar, butter, and a splash of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened.

Maple Syrup Glaze: Combine maple syrup, butter, and a squeeze of orange juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened.

Honey Glaze: Mix honey, butter, and a splash of lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until thickened.

Tips for Glazing: Achieving Perfection

Consistency is Key: The glaze should be thick enough to coat the yams, but not so thick that it's difficult to spread.

Don't Overcook: If you cook the glaze for too long, it will become too thick and sticky.

Brush it on: Once the glaze is ready, brush it onto the hot yams. The heat will help the glaze melt and caramelize.

Part 8: Serving Your Candy Yams: A Culinary Celebration

Serving: A Time to Enjoy

After all that effort, it's finally time to enjoy your beautiful and delicious candy yams! They make a fantastic centerpiece for any meal, and they're sure to impress your guests.

Serving Suggestions: From Side Dish to Dessert

As a Side Dish: Serve them alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or fish for a sweet and satisfying contrast.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

In a Casserole: Add them to your favorite casseroles for a touch of sweetness and creaminess.

In a Smoothie: Blend them into a smoothie for a healthy and satisfying breakfast.

Part 9: FAQs: Addressing Your Questions

1. What are the health benefits of eating sweet potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They're also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy and nutritious choice. Some of the key nutrients found in sweet potatoes include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and fiber.

2. How do I know if my yams are cooked through?

The easiest way to tell if your yams are cooked through is to poke them with a fork. If it slides in easily, they're ready. You can also check for doneness by pressing on the yams. If they give way easily, they're done.

3. Can I freeze candy yams?

Yes, you can freeze candy yams. To freeze them, let them cool completely after cooking, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They'll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven or microwave.

4. What can I do with leftover candy yams?

You can add leftover candy yams to your breakfast oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet and nutritious boost. You can also use them to make a quick and easy side dish by simply reheating them in the oven or microwave. If you're feeling creative, you can even use them to make a delicious dessert like a pie or a cake.

5. What are some other ways to cook sweet potatoes?

Besides roasting, mashing, and baking, there are many other ways to cook sweet potatoes. You can boil them, steam them, sauté them, or even fry them. Experiment with different cooking methods to find your favourite way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.

And there you have it, my ultimate guide to candy yams! I hope you’ve learned some new tips and tricks, and I can’t wait to see you try these amazing recipes.

So, get cooking, and enjoy!