Delicious Candied Sweet Potatoes: Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Candied sweet potatoes, often referred to as candied yams, are a beloved dish in many households, especially during festive seasons. This dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with rich flavors from sugars and spices, creating a delightful side that pairs perfectly with various main courses. In this article, we will explore several recipes for candied sweet potatoes, showcasing different methods and ingredients to help you create a mouthwatering dish for your next meal or gathering.

What Are Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Candied sweet potatoes are typically made by cooking sweet potatoes in a mixture of sugar, butter, and spices. This results in tender, flavorful potatoes that are coated in a sweet glaze. The dish can be prepared in various ways, including baking, stovetop cooking, or even grilling, allowing for flexibility based on personal preference or available kitchen equipment.

Key Ingredients for Candied Sweet Potatoes

While there are many variations of candied sweet potatoes, some common ingredients include:

• Sweet Potatoes: The star of the dish, sweet potatoes can be used in various forms, including orange or white varieties.
• Sugars: Both brown sugar and white sugar are commonly used to enhance sweetness.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth glaze.
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract provide warm, comforting flavors.
• Optional Add-ins: Ingredients like marshmallows, honey, or even bacon can add unique twists to the classic recipe.

Classic Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 1 stick of unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons frozen orange juice (thawed)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash, peel, and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine the brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, vanilla extract, butter, and orange juice. Stir until fully combined.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them in the mixture.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and cover the pot. Allow the sweet potatoes to simmer for about 50 minutes or until they are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
6. If the sweet potatoes are still firm, let them cook for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Once tender, turn the heat back to medium-high and let the mixture boil for 10 minutes before serving.

Tasting Suggestions:

These candied sweet potatoes can be served warm as a side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, especially turkey or ham. For a special touch, consider topping them with mini marshmallows during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, sweet finish.

Candied Sweet Potatoes with Bacon Skewers

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 12-16 strips of bacon
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup marshmallow fluff
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 20 minutes)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the sweet potato chunks with olive oil and roast them in the oven for 20-25 minutes until they are tender.
3. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, partially cook the bacon in a frying pan until it’s just starting to crisp, then drain the excess grease.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, thread them onto the skewers, wrapping each piece with bacon.
5. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon, then coat the skewers with this mixture.
6. Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet and bake them for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
7. Heat the marshmallow fluff in the microwave for a few seconds until it’s pourable, then drizzle it over the skewers before serving.

Tasting Suggestions:

This sweet and savory dish is perfect for parties or as a unique side at holiday dinners. The combination of sweet potatoes and bacon provides a delightful contrast that will impress your guests. Serve warm and enjoy the sticky, sweet goodness!

Stovetop Candied Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• Cinnamon to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 splashes of orange juice

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and orange juice to the skillet. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Add the sliced sweet potatoes to the skillet, tossing them in the glaze until they are evenly coated.
4. Cover the skillet and let the sweet potatoes cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender.
5. Once cooked, remove the lid and allow the glaze to thicken slightly before serving.

Tasting Suggestions:

This stovetop method is perfect for those short on time or who prefer a quicker cooking method. The sweet potatoes absorb the rich flavors of the glaze, making them a perfect companion to any holiday meal or Sunday dinner.

Tips for Perfect Candied Sweet Potatoes

To ensure your candied sweet potatoes turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

• Choose the right sweet potatoes: Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the glaze before adding the sweet potatoes and adjust the sugar levels to your preference.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add or substitute spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor profile.
• Consider presentation: If serving for a special occasion, consider garnishing with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.

Conclusion

Candied sweet potatoes are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many forms. Whether you prefer the classic baked version, the sweet and savory skewers, or the quick stovetop method, there’s a recipe here to satisfy every palate. With their rich flavors and delightful sweetness, candied sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and make them your own!