The moment you sink your fork into a warm, gooey piece of Juneteenth candied yams, the world seems to fade away. Sweet, buttery goodness envelops each bite, while a hint of cinnamon tickles your senses. The aroma wafts through the air, drawing everyone to the table like moths to a flame. You can’t help but savor the melody of flavors dancing on your palate, and suddenly, everything feels right in the universe. For more inspiration, check out this lazy girl pecan pie bars recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Juneteenth candied yams
- How to Make Juneteenth candied yams
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What are Juneteenth candied yams?
- How do I make Juneteenth candied yams from scratch?
- Can I use regular potatoes instead of yams for this recipe?
- What pairs well with Juneteenth candied yams?
- Conclusion for Juneteenth candied yams:
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served warm. I remember my grandma whipping up these candied yams every Juneteenth, her laughter echoing throughout the kitchen as we eagerly awaited that first bite. Perfect for family gatherings or simply indulging on a cozy night in, these yams will have you dreaming of sunny days and cherished memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These Juneteenth candied yams are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any cook—beginner or pro.
- The sweet and spicy flavor profile tantalizes taste buds and brings joy to every dinner table.
- With their vibrant orange hue, they add a pop of color and warmth to any holiday spread.
- Versatile enough for both celebrations and simple weeknight dinners, they are sure to impress!
Ingredients for Juneteenth candied yams
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Yams: Choose firm, smooth yams for optimal sweetness and flavor; around 3-4 medium-sized ones should do.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness while enhancing the rich flavor of the dish.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds depth and caramel notes that complement the natural sweetness of the yams.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives a warm spice that balances the sweetness perfectly; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch brings an aromatic touch that elevates this classic dish into something special.
- Marshmallows (optional): Mini marshmallows can be added for an extra layer of sweetness and gooeyness—perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Juneteenth candied yams
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a large baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray so those precious yams don’t stick around longer than they should!
Step 2: Prepare The Yams
Peel those beautiful yams with care—nobody wants skin in their dessert! Chop them into thick slices about half an inch wide. Even slices mean even cooking; you don’t want some pieces turning into mush while others remain crunchy.
Step 3: Create The Sweet Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This sticky concoction will become your best friend! Stir until everything is well-blended—think of it as creating sweet magic.
Step 4: Combine Yams And Sweetness
Place your yam slices in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle that glorious butter-sugar mixture over them like you’re drenching them in love. Toss gently so each slice gets coated in this heavenly syrup.
Step 5: Bake To Perfection
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil (we don’t want any sneaky steam escaping!) and bake for about 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil—the sweet aroma should have taken over your kitchen by now—and let it bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and tender.
Step 6: Optional Marshmallow Topping
If you’re feeling adventurous (or have guests who enjoy their sweets), sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top during the last five minutes of baking. They’ll puff up beautifully and create a delightful toasted topping!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy these amazing Juneteenth candied yams alongside family or friends; they’re sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering!
You Must Know
- These Juneteenth candied yams are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of culture and flavor.
- The sweet, syrupy goodness brings smiles to faces and fills hearts with warmth.
- Make them for gatherings or simply enjoy them on a cozy evening at home.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by peeling and chopping the yams into even pieces, ensuring they cook uniformly. Boil them until tender, then drain and transfer to a baking dish. Combine your syrup ingredients in a pot, pour over the yams, and bake until caramelized perfection is achieved.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Juneteenth candied yams by adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for extra warmth. You can also swap out brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a unique twist that will impress your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Juneteenth candied yams in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving their deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect candied yams, always choose firm yams; mushy ones won’t hold up during cooking.
- Don’t rush the baking process; let them caramelize slowly for maximum flavor.
- Lastly, taste as you go; adjust sweetness according to your preference!
Sharing my first experience making Juneteenth candied yams was unforgettable; my family devoured them within minutes, leaving me wondering if I should have made a double batch!
FAQs:
What are Juneteenth candied yams?
Juneteenth candied yams are a traditional dish enjoyed during the Juneteenth celebration, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. This dish typically features sweet potatoes, also known as yams, cooked with sugar, butter, and spices. sweet cornbread with honey butter The result is a sweet, caramelized side dish that complements savory meals. Families often prepare this recipe to honor their heritage and share it with loved ones during gatherings.
How do I make Juneteenth candied yams from scratch?
To make Juneteenth candied yams from scratch, start by peeling and slicing sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. Boil them until tender but not mushy. In a separate pot, combine brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a syrup. Once the sweet potatoes are ready, mix them with the syrup in a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.
Can I use regular potatoes instead of yams for this recipe?
While you can technically use regular potatoes in place of yams for Juneteenth candied yams, the flavor and texture will differ significantly. Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Regular potatoes may not achieve the same caramelization effect and will result in a less flavorful outcome. For more inspiration, check out this Martha Washington candy recipe recipe.
What pairs well with Juneteenth candied yams?
Juneteenth candied yams pair beautifully with various main dishes such as fried chicken, barbecue ribs, or roasted turkey. They also complement greens like collard greens or cabbage for a balanced meal. pair with fried catfish Additionally, cornbread serves as a delightful side that goes well with these sweet yams, making your Juneteenth celebration complete. add collard greens to your feast.
Conclusion for Juneteenth candied yams:
In summary, Juneteenth candied yams are a cherished dish that honors history while delighting taste buds. Their combination of sweet flavors and comforting textures makes them an ideal accompaniment to festive meals. Whether you prepare them for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe embodies tradition and love on your plate. Enjoy making these delicious yams as part of your celebrations!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Juneteenth Candied Yams
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of Juneteenth candied yams, a cherished dish that evokes nostalgia and celebration. Each bite features buttery yams bathed in a rich blend of brown sugar and warm spices, creating a comforting harmony of flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this recipe not only adds color to your table but also brings warmth and joy to every occasion. Let these vibrant yams take center stage at your next celebration, reminding you of cherished memories and cultural heritage.
Ingredients
- 4 medium yams (about 2 lbs)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Peel and slice yams into thick half-inch pieces for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well-blended.
- Place yam slices in the baking dish, drizzle the butter-sugar mixture over them, and toss gently to coat.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender and golden brown.
- For an optional topping, add mini marshmallows during the last five minutes of baking for a toasted finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 120g
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
