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Southern Candied Yams

Southern Candied Yams

  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Southern Candied Yams with a sweet and savory balance, featuring tender yams coated in a rich syrup enhanced by smoky plant-based bacon. This comforting side dish is perfect for holiday tables or everyday meals, offering warmth, sweetness, and a depth of flavor using simple natural ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 pounds firm, fresh sweet yams, peeled and cut into thick rounds or large chunks
  • 6 slices smoked plant-based turkey bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup natural brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup plant-based butter (plant-based)
  • 2 tablespoons natural apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (natural)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Optional Variations and Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (natural), to replace brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or allspice (natural), for spice boost
  • 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, for nutty crunch
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (natural), for extra citrus zing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yams: Peel and cut yams into thick rounds or large chunks to ensure even cooking and tender texture. Place them in a pot of boiling water and par-cook until just tender but not mushy, then drain well.
  2. Cook the Smoked Plant-Based Turkey Bacon: Chop the smoked plant-based turkey bacon into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until crispy. Remove and set aside, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pan.
  3. Make the Candied Syrup: In the same skillet with the drippings, add plant-based butter and natural brown sugar. Stir until melted and combined. Whisk in apple cider vinegar (natural), cinnamon (natural), nutmeg (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Cook gently, stirring often until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly to form a luscious syrup.
  4. Combine and Bake: Place the par-cooked yams in a baking dish and pour the prepared syrup over them. Toss gently to coat the yams evenly. Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until yams are tender and the syrup is glossy and bubbly.
  5. Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and allow to rest for a few minutes. This resting period lets the flavors meld and the syrup thicken further for perfect coating before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh and firm yams for the best texture and flavor.
  • Retain and use the bacon drippings for a smoky richness in the syrup.
  • Keep stirring the syrup while heating to avoid burning and ensure even glaze.
  • Par-cooking the yams prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
  • Let the dish rest before serving to allow the syrup to thicken and coat each bite beautifully.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Southern Candied Yams, sweet yams recipe, plant-based candied yams, smoky candied yams, holiday side dish, gluten free side

Find it online: https://puretastekitchen.com/southern-candied-yams/