Description
Southern Candied Yams offer a comforting, naturally sweet side dish featuring tender yams coated in a luscious plant-based caramelized glaze infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. This easy-to-make recipe uses wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients and is perfect for family meals or special gatherings, pairing beautifully with a variety of main courses.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups firm, fresh yams, peeled and sliced into thick rounds or chunks
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (natural)
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (e.g., pectin or agar)
Instructions
- Prepare the Yams: Peel and slice the yams into thick rounds or chunks to ensure even cooking and maximum glaze absorption. Rinse the slices briefly in cold water to remove excess starch and set them aside to dry.
- Build the Flavorful Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the plant-based butter. Stir in the brown sugar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon (natural), nutmeg (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Cook gently while stirring until the mixture thickens into a rich, sticky glaze.
- Combine and Coat: Gently toss the sliced yams into the warm glaze, making sure every piece is generously coated to infuse the sweet and spicy flavors deeply.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the glazed yams into a baking dish and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes. Halfway through baking, baste the yams with the cooking juices to maintain moisture and enhance caramelization.
- Final Touches: After baking, allow the yams to cool slightly so the glaze thickens further. Serve warm as a comforting, irresistible side dish.
Notes
- Pick fresh yams for the best texture and natural sweetness.
- Don’t skip basting halfway through baking to keep the yams moist and caramelized.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg (natural) to elevate the flavor.
- Let the yams rest briefly after baking to thicken the glaze perfectly.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar (natural) for your preferred sweetness level.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: candied yams, southern side dish, plant-based yams, vegan yams, sweet yams, glazed yams, holiday side dish