A Decadent Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish

When the temperature drops and the cozy scent of baked goods fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the sweet and spiced aroma of candied yams with Ginger and Orange Zest wafting through your home. But today, we’re elevating this traditional favorite with an irresistible twist: the warm zing of ginger and the bright burst of orange zest. Picture soft, caramelized yams glazed with brown sugar and butter, accented by the spicy bite of fresh ginger and the citrusy kick of orange zest. It’s a melody of flavors that dance harmoniously on your taste buds, creating a dish that’s not just for the holidays but perfect for any time you crave comfort and warmth.

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”
Virginia Woolf.

This unique take on candied yams will turn heads at your next gathering and have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re looking to impress family at Thanksgiving dinner or add a vibrant side to your weeknight meal, these candied yams with ginger and orange zest are the perfect choice. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be able to transform humble yams into a show-stopping side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Candied Yams with Ginger and Orange Zest Recipe

1. A Flavor Explosion:

The combination of tender yams with the sweetness of brown sugar, the warmth of cinnamon, the kick of fresh ginger, and the tangy brightness of orange zest creates an unparalleled flavor profile. It’s sweet, spicy, and citrusy all in one bite!

2. Perfect for Any Occasion:

While candied yams are often associated with holiday feasts, this recipe is versatile enough to be served all year round. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

3. Simple Ingredients, Big Impact:

You don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients to make this dish shine. Yams, brown sugar, butter, fresh ginger, and oranges are all you need to create a gourmet-quality side that’s both impressive and easy to make.

4. Make-Ahead Friendly:

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and simply reheated before serving, making it a stress-free addition to your meal planning.

5. Nutrient-Rich and Satisfying:

Yams are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. When combined with the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and the vitamin C boost from oranges, this dish not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also nourishes your body.

How to Make Candied Yams with Ginger and Orange Zest

Ingredients:

4 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Zest and juice of 1 large orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Yams: Arrange the sliced yams in the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
Make the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, grated ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, and orange juice. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Coat the Yams: Pour the glaze over the yams, ensuring each piece is well coated. Use a spoon or spatula to turn the yams gently, coating them thoroughly in the mixture.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, gently stir the yams to recoat them with the glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional orange zest for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Candied with Ginger and Orange Zest

Choose the Right Yams: Select firm, unblemished yams with vibrant orange flesh. Avoid sweet potatoes, as their texture and flavor differ from yams.
Uniform Slices: Cut the yams into uniform slices to ensure even cooking. This helps each piece become perfectly tender without some being over or undercooked.
Don’t Skip the Fresh Ginger: While ground ginger can be used in a pinch, fresh ginger provides a more robust flavor and aromatic quality that elevates the dish.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar to 3/4 cup. You can also substitute some of the sugar with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.
Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version of this dish.

Candied Yams with Ginger and Orange Zest Recipe FAQ

Question	Answer
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of yams?	Yes, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Sweet potatoes are generally softer and sweeter, so adjust the sugar level if necessary.
How do I store leftovers?	Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?	Yes, you can prepare the yams and glaze them up to a day in advance. Store in the fridge and bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of orange zest?	Lemon zest or a splash of orange juice concentrate can be used if you don’t have fresh oranges. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile slightly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?	Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all your ingredients, particularly the vanilla extract, are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.

Candied Yams with Ginger and Orange Zest

Thomas J. Moss

UltimateCandied Yams Recipe: A Sweet, Spicy, Citrus Explosion You Must Try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 50

Total Time 1 10

Servings 8

Calories 270 kcal

Equipment

Baking dish,
Mixing bowl
– Whisk

Ingredients

4 large yams peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 cup brown sugar packed
1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
2 tablespoons fresh ginger grated
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Zest and juice of 1 large orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Yams: Arrange the sliced yams in the prepared baking dish in an even layer.
Make the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, grated ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest, and orange juice. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Coat the Yams: Pour the glaze over the yams, ensuring each piece is well coated. Use a spoon or spatula to turn the yams gently, coating them thoroughly in the mixture.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, gently stir the yams to recoat them with the glaze, and bake uncovered for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender and the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional orange zest for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Adjust the sweetness level by reducing brown sugar as desired.

Nutrition (per serving):

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