Yams
Candied yams are a classic side dish in Southern cuisine.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Sugar's Place
Candied yams, as a dish, evolved from a confluence of influences. Sweet potatoes, native to the Americas, were combined with sugar, butter, and spices, reflecting both indigenous ingredients and European culinary techniques brought over during colonization. The dish became particularly popular in the Southern United States, adapted by African American cooks, who infused it with their own traditions and flavors. Misidentification of sweet potatoes as 'yams' contributed to the name.
Candied yams are a staple side dish in Southern cuisine, particularly at Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, representing comfort, tradition, and shared meals with family.
Holiday Tradition
Candied yams are almost always present at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners in many Southern households, symbolizing abundance and gratitude.
Soul Food Heritage
The dish is deeply rooted in African American culinary traditions, showcasing resourcefulness and the adaptation of ingredients into flavorful and nourishing meals.
Family Recipe Variations
Each family often has their own unique recipe for candied yams, passed down through generations, creating a sense of continuity and connection.
Candied yams are characterized by their rich, sweet, and slightly spiced flavor profile.
The dominant flavor is sweetness, derived from brown sugar, granulated sugar, or maple syrup. Butter adds richness and a creamy texture. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves provide warmth and complexity. Some recipes include vanilla extract for additional flavor depth. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes themselves is amplified through the cooking process.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes
Look for sweet potatoes with smooth, firm skin and no blemishes. Jewel or Garnet varieties are popular choices due to their moistness and vibrant color. Be aware 'yams' in US grocery stores are often just a softer variety of sweet potato.
Preventing Mushiness
Avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes, as they can become mushy. Test for doneness with a fork – they should be tender but still hold their shape. A slight crisp on the edges is desirable.
Adjusting Sweetness
Taste the yams during the cooking process and adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Consider using a combination of sugars, like brown sugar for a molasses-like flavor and granulated sugar for overall sweetness.
Adding Acidity
A splash of lemon juice or orange juice can balance the sweetness and add brightness to the dish.
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