There’s something truly magical about the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare Candied Yams with Toasted Pecans. Just imagine, the rich sweetness of buttery brown sugar bubbling away, enveloping soft, tender yams in a luscious glaze that beckons to be savored. The rich orange hue of the yams catches the light as they roast, turning golden and yielding to each touch. The final crunch of toasted pecans adds a satisfying texture, transforming each bite into a delightful experience of flavor and warmth.

This dish doesn’t just fill your stomach; it warms your soul. Picture the feel of a cozy family gathering, laughter echoing as your loved ones pass around a bubbling casserole dish filled with yams, lovingly topped with nuts. Each spoonful evokes memories of celebrations gone by, your senses dancing in rhythm with the sweet, spiced fragrance in the air. It’s more than just food; it’s a heartfelt gesture, a tradition that connects generations over the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams with Toasted Pecans

Candied yams resonate with joy, making them a must-try dish for any festive gathering or Sunday family dinner. The combination of velvety textures and complex flavors creates an unforgettable experience. Each bite of velvety yam swathed in a rich brown sugar glaze dances with a hint of cinnamon, making you smile with every mouthful.

This dish stands out not only for its taste but also for its versatility. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, a holiday feast, or simply looking for a cozy side to accompany a weeknight meal, candied yams shine in any setting. Their natural sweetness and buttery richness complement savory dishes beautifully. Plus, they also bring a gorgeous pop of color to your table!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

When it comes to crafting the perfect batch of candied yams, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for peeling and chopping yams efficiently, ensuring even pieces that cook uniformly.
Large Pot: A pot large enough to hold all the yams allows for even boiling, achieving that tender texture we crave.
Baking Dish: Choose a medium to large baking dish to accommodate your yams as they bake to perfection. A ceramic or glass dish works wonderfully, retaining heat and ensuring even cooking.
Mixing Bowl: A medium mixing bowl allows for easy blending of your brown sugar mixture without making a mess.
Spatula or Spoon: Use a spatula or spoon for tossing the yams in the glaze and distributing the toasted pecans evenly.

Ingredients for Candied Yams with Toasted Pecans

2-3 medium yams: The star of the dish, these sweet tubers transform into tender morsels. You can substitute yams with sweet potatoes if desired.
1/2 cup brown sugar: The sweet touch that caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the yams’ natural flavor.
1/4 cup butter: Creaminess and richness blend together, making every bite decadent and satisfying. Feel free to use plant-based butter for a vegan option.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: This warm spice elevates the flavor profile, bringing earthiness into the sweet mix.
1/2 cup toasted pecans: For that delightful crunch and nutty goodness, pecans balance the dish perfectly. You can replace them with walnuts or almonds if pecans are hard to find.
Salt to taste: A little bit of salt enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and creating a more dynamic taste.

How to Make Candied Yams with Toasted Pecans

Preheat your oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Warming it up beforehand ensures a perfect bake.
Prepare the yams: Peel the yams using your sharp knife and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Aim for even chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
Boil the yams: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chopped yams and cook until tender, roughly 10-15 minutes. A fork should easily pierce through them.
Make the glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until these ingredients form a smooth, thick mixture.
Drain and mix: Once the yams are tender, drain the water and transfer them into your baking dish. Pour the brown sugar mixture over the yams and toss gently until they are fully coated.
Add the pecans: Evenly sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top of your yams. They will add a lovely crunch and nuttiness that perfectly complements the soft, candied yams.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. The yams will caramelize, becoming deliciously soft and slightly sticky.
Serve warm: Once golden and fragrant, take them out and allow your guests to relish the warm, inviting sweetness.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-ahead tips: Feel free to prepare the yams a day in advance. Simply cook the yams, drain, toss them in the glaze, and refrigerate before baking on the day of serving.
Cooking alternatives: If you own an air fryer, try using it for a crispy finish! Cook the yams at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method gives them a delightful texture.
Customization ideas: Don’t hesitate to play with flavors. Add a splash of vanilla extract for a delightful twist. Consider incorporating other spices like nutmeg or ginger to further enrich the taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the yams: Keep an eye on the yams during boiling; overcooking can lead to mushy pieces. Aim for a fork-tender texture.
Not toasting the pecans: Toasting brings out the flavors of the pecans. Skip this step at your peril! Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes before using.
Skipping the salt: A tiny pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor by balancing out sweetness. Don’t forget it!

What to Serve With Candied Yams with Toasted Pecans

Pair your delectable candied yams with these delightful dishes:

Roast Turkey: The savory richness of roast turkey harmonizes beautifully with the sweet and buttery yams, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.
Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweet and salty notes of honey-glazed ham complement the sweet candied yams fantastically, making for an irresistible duo.
Green Bean Casserole: Creamy, savory green bean casserole and sweet, sticky yams balance each other perfectly on your plate.
Cornbread: The crumbly texture of cornbread pairs nicely, soaking up the syrupy goodness of the yams.
Grilled Chicken: The lighter flavor of grilled chicken allows the candied yams to shine while providing a satisfying protein element.
Stuffing: Herb-seasoned stuffing adds a savory touch to your meal and complements the sweetness of the yams.
Collard Greens: Rich collard greens offer a healthy balance with a slight bitterness that perfectly contrasts the dish’s sweetness.
Macaroni and Cheese: The gooey, cheesy comfort of macaroni and cheese can take any holiday meal from good to great, especially paired alongside the yams.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover candied yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you wish to save some for later, they freeze beautifully! Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, warm them in the microwave for a quick meal. For the best results, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Estimated Nutrition Information

Approximate values per serving (serves 4-6):

Calories: 210
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 30mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 18g
Protein: 2g

Values may vary based on recipe variations, serving sizes, and ingredient brands.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can act as a perfect substitute. They offer a slightly different texture and flavor profile but will yield delicious results.

2. How do I know when my yams are done boiling?

Check your yams with a fork! They should be tender but not so soft that they fall apart. A fork should slide in easily but still hold their shape.

3. Can this recipe be made vegan?

Indeed, switch out the butter for a plant-based alternative, and it becomes a vegan delight! Just make sure your brown sugar is vegan-friendly as well.

4. How can I use leftovers creatively?

Use leftover yams in breakfast dishes! Add them to oatmeal, pancakes, or even a sweet potato smoothie for a nourishing start to your day.

5. Is there a way to make them even sweeter?

For an extra sweet touch, drizzle pure maple syrup or honey over the yams before baking. It adds both sweetness and flavor depth.

Conclusion

Your journey into the world of Candied Yams with Toasted Pecans culminates here, but the experience awaits. Imagine sharing this comforting dish with friends and family, a delicious symbol of warmth and togetherness. Each luscious bite of caramelized yams combined with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans wraps you in a loving embrace, reminiscing about cherished moments shared around the table.

So why wait? Embrace the flavors, the aromas, and the joy of cooking this wonderful dish. Dive into the warmth of your kitchen, and savor the smiles that will come as you serve this delightful recipe at your next gathering. Happy cooking!

Candied Yams with Toasted Pecans

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Author: sarah
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful side dish of tender yams coated in a rich brown sugar glaze, topped with crunchy toasted pecans, perfect for any festive gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

2–3 medium yams
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup toasted pecans
Salt to taste

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Peel and chop the yams into bite-sized pieces.
In a large pot, boil water and cook yams until tender, approximately 10-15 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to make the glaze.
Drain yams and transfer them into a baking dish. Toss them with the brown sugar mixture until fully coated.
Sprinkle toasted pecans over the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until caramelized and golden.
Serve warm.

Notes

For an easier preparation, yams can be cooked a day in advance and stored in the glaze mixture before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 210
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 15mg