How to Make Chef John's Candied Yams - A Step-by-Step Guide

Candied yams are a classic Thanksgiving side dish that never fails to make an appearance on holiday tables. This sweet and comforting dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason - the rich and decadent flavors of the yams combined with the sweetness of the brown sugar create an irresistible combination that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you're hosting a holiday feast or simply looking for a delicious new side dish to add to your recipe repertoire, Chef John's Cand...

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Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 2 quarts cold water
  • 3 pounds orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped pistachios, pecans, or walnuts for garnish

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 30 mins
  • Servings: 8

  • Stir salt into 2 quarts of cold water in a large pot. Transfer sweet potato pieces to the pot and place over high heat; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until potatoes are not quite tender but still cooked, 5 to 7 minutes. Use the tip of a knife to test for doneness. Drain.
  • Place brown sugar, butter, lemon juice, maple syrup, ginger, cinnamon, cayenne, and pinch of salt in a skillet. Place over medium-high heat, stirring until glaze ingredients melt and start bubbling. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until mixture begins to thicken, 4 to 6 minutes.
  • Transfer drained sweet potatoes to a skillet. Increase heat to high; cook and stir until potatoes are coated with glaze and very tender, and glaze has thickened, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer to serving dish; garnish with chopped nuts.
  • Nutrition

    338 cal.

    • Total Fat: 6g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
    • Cholesterol: 15mg
    • Sodium: 2294mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 70g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5g
    • Total Sugars: 40g
    • Protein: 3g
    • Vitamin C: 11mg
    • Calcium: 92mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 666mg