Unforgettable Candied Yams with Rosemary and Sea Salt

A Gourmet Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish

Imagine the delightful aroma of caramelized yams wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the fragrant scent of fresh rosemary and a hint of sea salt. It’s a sensory experience that transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one. Candied yams with Rosemary and Sea Salt are a beloved dish, especially during the holiday season, but this recipe takes them to a whole new level. We’re adding a gourmet touch with the herbaceous notes of rosemary and the delicate crunch of sea salt.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.”

Auguste Escoffier.

Whether you’re a fan of the traditional candied yams or looking to try something new, this version promises to be a game-changer. It’s not just about the sweetness; it’s about balance. The earthy yams, the sweetness of the brown sugar, the aromatic rosemary, and the slightly salty finish all come together to create a dish that’s as sophisticated as it is comforting. Perfect for holiday dinners, weekend gatherings, or even a cozy night in, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

In this article, we’ll guide you through every step to create these delectable Candied yams with Rosemary and Sea Salt, share tips to perfect the dish, answer some frequently asked questions, and even provide a nutritional breakdown. So, let’s get cooking and turn a simple side dish into a star on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams with Rosemary and Sea Salt Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination: While candied yams are typically sweet, this recipe introduces the savory, aromatic touch of rosemary and the subtle crunch of sea salt, making every bite a delightful surprise.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday spread or a regular weeknight dinner, this dish fits right in. It’s versatile enough to be paired with a variety of mains, from roasted chicken to a hearty vegetarian casserole.
3. Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet flair, this recipe is simple and straightforward. With just a few ingredients and basic steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser without breaking a sweat.
4. Healthier Twist: We’re keeping the sugar content balanced and using healthy fats, making it a more wholesome option compared to traditional versions loaded with marshmallows and extra sugar.
5. Visual Appeal: The golden yams, glistening with caramelized sugar, speckled with green rosemary and sprinkled with sea salt, look as good as they taste. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress visually and gastronomically.

How to Make Candied Yams with Rosemary and Sea Salt

Ingredients

• 4 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your yams will cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
2. Prepare the Yams: Peel the yams and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar, honey, rosemary, sea salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined.
4. Coat the Yams: Pour the glaze over the sliced yams and toss them gently to ensure each piece is well-coated.
5. Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the glazed yams to a large baking dish, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the glaze is thick and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the yams from the oven and let them cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top and garnish with additional rosemary if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips for the Perfect Candied Yams with Rosemary

1. Choose the Right Yams: Opt for firm, deep orange yams for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overly large ones, as they can be starchy.
2. Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar and honey based on your preference. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar by half.
3. Don’t Skip the Fresh Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds a distinct flavor that dried simply can’t replicate. If you can’t find fresh, use half the amount of dried rosemary.
4. Use a Glass or Ceramic Baking Dish: These materials distribute heat evenly, helping the yams cook uniformly and prevent the glaze from burning.
5. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like ground ginger or allspice to enhance the flavor profile.

“Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.”

Alan D. Wolfelt.

FAQ For Candied Yams with Rosemary Recipe

Healthy Desserts

Savor the creamy goodness of Cottage Cheese Cheesecake.

People Also Ask

1. How many days are candied yams good for?

Candied yams are best consumed within 3 to 5 days when stored properly:

• Storage tips: Place them in an airtight container or cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Reheating: Warm them gently in the oven or microwave to retain their flavor and texture.

2. How long can you keep candied yams in the refrigerator?

Candied yams can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days:

• Best practices: Ensure they are cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container to prevent condensation and spoilage.
• Tip: Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

3. What makes sweet potatoes taste better?

Sweet potatoes’ natural sweetness can be enhanced with:

• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
• Acidity: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice adds brightness.
• Toppings: Butter, maple syrup, or toasted nuts for a richer taste.
• Savory options: Olive oil, garlic, or herbs like rosemary or thyme for a contrasting flavor. Experiment with combinations to suit your preferences.

4. Do you add salt to water when boiling sweet potatoes?

Yes, adding salt to the water when boiling sweet potatoes is recommended:

• Flavor enhancement: Salt infuses the sweet potatoes with subtle seasoning as they cook.
• Improved texture: Salted water helps maintain the structure of the sweet potatoes, preventing them from becoming mushy. Add about 1 teaspoon of salt per quart of water.

5. What happens when you add salt to boiling potatoes?

Adding salt to boiling potatoes:

• Enhances flavor: The potatoes absorb the salt, making them taste better inside and out.
• Improves texture: Salt can help the potatoes cook more evenly and retain their shape. It’s a simple step that significantly improves the final dish.

6. How long can sweet potatoes sit in water before boiling?

Sweet potatoes can sit in water for up to 24 hours before boiling:

• Storage tips: Keep them in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
• Prevent discoloration: Submerging peeled sweet potatoes in water stops them from oxidizing and turning brown. Make sure to boil them within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes When Making Candied Yams with Rosemary Sea Salt:

1. Using too much liquid: Overloading the dish with syrup or butter can result in a watery consistency. Stick to the recipe’s proportions.
2. Skipping the reduction step: Failing to simmer the syrup properly can leave it thin and underwhelming.
3. Overpowering with rosemary: Too much rosemary can dominate the dish. Use it sparingly for a balanced flavor.
4. Uneven yam slices: Cutting yams into uneven pieces can cause inconsistent cooking, with some pieces undercooked and others overdone.
5. Under-seasoning: Forgetting to add sea salt or not seasoning evenly can result in a bland dish.

Conclusion

Candied Yams with Rosemary Sea Salt provide a savory twist on the traditional sweet dish, blending caramelized yams with the earthy aroma of rosemary and the bright flavor of sea salt. To ensure success, balance the sweetness of the syrup with the rosemary and sea salt, reduce the syrup properly, and cut the yams evenly for consistent cooking. By avoiding common mistakes like using too much liquid or over-seasoning, you’ll create a delicious, elegant side dish that’s perfect for holiday meals or special occasions!

Candied Yams with Rosemary and Sea Salt

Thomas J. Moss

UltimateCandied Yams Recipe: Savory-Sweet Fusion with Rosemary & Sea Salt!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings 8

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• large mixing bowl,
• small saucepan,
• large baking dish

Ingredients

  

• 4 large yams peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon sea salt plus extra for sprinkling
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a hint of heat

Instructions

 

• Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your yams will cook evenly and caramelize beautifully.
• Prepare the Yams: Peel the yams and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
• Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar, honey, rosemary, sea salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well combined.
• Coat the Yams: Pour the glaze over the sliced yams and toss them gently to ensure each piece is well-coated.
• Arrange in Baking Dish: Transfer the glazed yams to a large baking dish, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
• Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the glaze is thick and bubbly.
• Garnish and Serve: Remove the yams from the oven and let them cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top and garnish with additional rosemary if desired. Enjoy warm!

Notes

For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Nutrition per serving:

Calories: | 280 |Carbohydrates: | 47g |Protein: | 2g |Fat: | 12g |Saturated Fat: | 7g |Polyunsaturated Fat: | 1g |Monounsaturated Fat: | 3g |Sodium: | 240mg |Potassium: | 450mg |Fiber: | 4g |Sugar: | 22g |Vitamin C: | 15% |Calcium: | 4% |Iron: | 3% |

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