Soul Food Candied Yams (Printable)

Tender yams simmered in a buttery brown sugar glaze, caramelized in a skillet for a rich Southern flavor.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Yams

01 - 3 large yams (about 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

# How-To Steps:

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 to coat in the syrup.
03 - Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, gently stirring and turning the yams occasionally.
04 - Remove the lid and raise the heat to medium. Continue cooking for 10 to 15 minutes, spooning syrup over the yams, until they are fork-tender and the sauce is thick and glossy.
05 - Stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans before serving.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Simple & Soulful: Just a handful of pantry staples create incredible depth of flavor
  • One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in a single skillet for easy cleanup
  • Perfectly Glazed: The yams become fork-tender while developing a gorgeous, glossy coating
  • Crowd-Pleaser: A beloved classic that brings warmth to any table, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts
  • Naturally Gluten-Free & Vegetarian: Inclusive and delicious for various dietary needs
02 -
  • Choose the Right Yams: Look for firm, unblemished yams with smooth skin for the best texture
  • Don't Skip the Lid: Covering the skillet traps steam, helping the yams cook through evenly
  • Watch the Heat: Medium-low for tenderness, then medium for glazing—this two-stage approach is key
  • Make Ahead: Prepare up to a day in advance and gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water
  • Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors deepen beautifully overnight
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