Irresistible Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams

Published:

September 20, 2024

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A Sweet Symphony of Flavor

When the weather cools down and the scent of autumn lingers in the air, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a dish that embodies the warmth and coziness of the season. Enter Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams a decadent, soul-soothing side dish that effortlessly bridges the gap between comfort food and gourmet delight. Imagine tender, caramelized yams bathed in a luscious, buttery syrup infused with the bold notes of bourbon and a medley of warming spices.

This is not your everyday yam dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece that elevates any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for holiday feasts, Sunday dinners, or whenever you crave a touch of indulgence, these yams are a testament to the magic that happens when simplicity meets sophistication in the kitchen.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this show-stopping dish, from the list of ingredients to the step-by-step process, and tips to make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is as approachable as it is delicious. And the best part? It’s sure to leave your guests asking for seconds and the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams Recipe

1. Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of sweet, tender yams with the rich, smoky undertones of bourbon and the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a depth of flavor that is truly unforgettable. It’s sweet, spicy, and a little boozy everything you didn’t know you needed in a side dish!

2. Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving this at a Thanksgiving dinner or a cozy family gathering, these candied yams are always a hit. They pair beautifully with a range of main dishes, from roast turkey to glazed ham, or even a simple herb-roasted chicken.

3. Easy to Make: Despite their complex flavor profile, these yams are surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a dish that looks and tastes like it came straight out of a five-star kitchen.

4. Customizable: Not a fan of bourbon? Swap it out for rum or leave it out entirely for a kid-friendly version. You can also adjust the sweetness level to suit your taste or add your favorite nuts for extra texture.

5. Make-Ahead Friendly: These candied yams can be made ahead of time, making them a perfect stress-free option for holiday entertaining. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving, and they’ll be as delicious as ever.

How to Make Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams

Ingredients

4 large yams (or sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into 1-inch slices
1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup bourbon (optional, but recommended)
½ cup water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pecans or walnuts (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Yams: Peel and slice the yams into 1-inch thick rounds. Arrange them in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, bourbon, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved completely. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The syrup will bubble slightly, releasing an intoxicating aroma.
Coat the Yams: Pour the hot syrup evenly over the yams, making sure each slice is well-coated. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
Bake: Bake the yams in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, basting occasionally with the syrup, until the yams are tender and the syrup has thickened to a glossy glaze.
Optional Garnish: If using, toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle them over the yams just before serving for a delightful crunch.
Serve: Serve these Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams warm, and watch as they disappear from the table!

Tips for Perfect Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams

1. Choose the Right Yams: For the best texture and flavor, choose yams or sweet potatoes that are firm and free from blemishes. The fresher, the better!

2. Control the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. You can also try using a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.

3. Keep an Eye on the Syrup: The syrup can go from perfectly thickened to burnt quickly, so keep a close watch during the last few minutes of cooking. If it starts to darken too much, add a splash of water to thin it out.

4. Make Ahead: This dish can be made up to two days in advance. Store it in the fridge covered with foil, and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

5. Play with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices. A pinch of allspice, a splash of orange juice, or even a hint of cardamom can add new dimensions to the dish.

Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams Recipe FAQ

Question	Answer
Can I make this dish without bourbon?	Absolutely! You can omit the bourbon or substitute it with rum or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
How do I store leftovers?	Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I use canned yams?	Yes, you can use canned yams if you’re short on time. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using. Adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
What’s the difference between yams and sweet potatoes?	While often used interchangeably in the U.S., yams and sweet potatoes are different. True yams have rougher skin and are starchier, while sweet potatoes are sweeter and softer.
Can I freeze this dish?	You can freeze the baked yams in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.

Sweet and Savory!
Treat yourself with Candied Yams with Pecan Crumble

Common Mistakes When Making Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams:

Using too much liquid: Overdoing the bourbon or syrup can result in a watery dish. Stick to the recipe’s measurements.
Skipping the reduction step: Failing to cook the syrup long enough can leave it thin and underwhelming.
Overcooking the yams: Overcooked yams become mushy and lose their structure.
Imbalanced spices: Too much bourbon or spice can overpower the natural sweetness of the yams. Use spices sparingly for a balanced flavor.
Uneven cuts: Cutting the yams unevenly leads to inconsistent cooking, with some pieces undercooked and others overdone.

Conclusion

Bourbon-Spiced Candied Yams offer a sophisticated twist on a classic side dish. The warmth of bourbon combined with sweet syrup and spices enhances the natural flavor of the yams, creating a dish perfect for special occasions. To ensure success, balance the ingredients carefully, avoid common mistakes like overcooking or using too much liquid, and take the time to reduce the syrup for a rich, caramelized finish. This elevated recipe is sure to impress at any holiday table or dinner gathering!