Soul Food Candied Yams (Print Version)

Tender yams in brown sugar syrup, cooked to caramelized perfection in a skillet for a Southern favorite.

# Components:

→ 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

# Directions:

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 each slice 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 increase heat to medium. Continue cooking for 10 to 15 minutes, spooning syrup over the yams continuously, 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 before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Simple ingredients create complex, caramelized flavor
  • One-skillet method means easy preparation and cleanup
  • Perfectly tender yams with a glossy, buttery glaze
  • Vegetarian and gluten-free, welcoming to many diets
  • Classic Southern soul food that brings comfort to any table
02 -
  • Use a wide 12-inch skillet to give the yams room to cook evenly without overcrowding
  • Don't skip the covered cooking phase—it ensures the yams soften without burning the syrup
  • Spooning syrup over the yams during uncovered cooking builds layers of flavor and glaze
  • Add vanilla extract at the end to preserve its delicate aroma
  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving so the syrup can thicken slightly
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