how to cook candied yams on the stove

3 min read 18-01-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to make delicious candied yams on the stovetop! This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and techniques for perfectly sweet and tender yams every time. Get the step-by-step guide, tips for the best flavor, and variations to customize your dish. Impress your family and friends with this delectable side dish!

Introduction: The Allure of Stovetop Candied Yams

Candied yams—that sweet, caramelized, and utterly irresistible side dish—are a holiday classic. But you don't need an oven to achieve that perfect balance of sweet and savory. This guide will walk you through making delicious candied yams entirely on the stovetop, saving you time and energy. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master.

Ingredients for Stovetop Candied Yams

3 pounds yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 1-inch cubes)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup maple syrup (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Candied Yams on the Stovetop

1. Preparing the Yams:

Thoroughly wash and peel your yams. Cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Smaller cubes will cook faster.

2. Sautéing the Yams:

Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. This will help prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Add the cubed yams to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and lightly brown (about 5-7 minutes).

3. Simmering in Sweetness:

Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mix well to coat the yams evenly.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the yams are tender and the liquid has thickened into a syrupy glaze (about 20-25 minutes). Check for doneness by piercing a yam cube with a fork – it should easily pierce through.

4. Achieving that Perfect Glaze:

Once the yams are tender, increase the heat to medium-low and continue to cook, uncovered, stirring frequently, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency and the yams are nicely caramelized (another 5-10 minutes).

Tips for the Best Stovetop Candied Yams

Use a heavy-bottomed pot: This prevents scorching and ensures even cooking.
Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the yams in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning and caramelization.
Taste and adjust: Add more brown sugar or maple syrup for extra sweetness, or a pinch more spice to taste.
Fresh is best: Freshly squeezed orange juice adds a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled juice.

Variations and Add-ins

Spiced Candied Yams: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ginger for a spicy kick.
Marshmallow Candied Yams: Top with mini marshmallows during the last few minutes of cooking for a gooey, delicious finish.
Pecan Candied Yams: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your stovetop candied yams as a delicious side dish alongside roasted meats, poultry, or even as a sweet and savory complement to breakfast sausages.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Candied Yams!

Making candied yams on the stovetop is a wonderfully easy and efficient way to enjoy this classic dish. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So ditch the oven and enjoy the sweet, caramelized goodness of perfectly cooked stovetop candied yams! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!