Soul Food Candied Yams (Printable)

Tender yams cooked in a brown sugar glaze with buttery, caramelized notes and a touch of warm spices.

# What You Need:

→ Yams

01 - 3 large yams (approximately 2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds

→ Syrup

02 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 1/4 cup water
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Optional Garnish

09 - 1/4 cup chopped pecans

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large 12-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
02 - Arrange the yam slices evenly in the skillet, turning to coat thoroughly in the syrup.
03 - Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, gently stirring and turning the yams occasionally to ensure even cooking.
04 - Remove the lid and raise the heat to medium. Continue cooking for 10 to 15 minutes, spooning syrup over the yams frequently, until they are fork-tender and the sauce becomes thick and glossy.
05 - Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
06 - Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Deliciously tender yams glazed in a buttery, spiced brown sugar syrup.
  • Simple preparation with ingredients that create deep, caramelized flavors.
  • Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, fitting a variety of diets.
  • Perfect as a comforting side dish that pairs well with classic Southern meals.
02 -
  • Use a large skillet with a lid for even cooking and to maintain moisture.
  • Peeling yams evenly and cutting them into uniform thickness ensures consistent cooking.
  • Gently spooning syrup over the yams during the final cooking stage thickens the glaze beautifully.
  • Check that yams are fork-tender but not falling apart to retain texture and presentation.
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