Southern-Style Candied Yams

Coat the sweet potatoes: Add the sliced sweet potatoes to the skillet, ensuring they’re well coated with the syrup. The sweet potatoes should start to soak up all that delicious flavor.
Simmer gently: Let the sweet potatoes simmer in the syrup for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to infuse the potatoes with flavor and start the cooking process.
Step 4: Bake the Yams
Transfer to a baking dish: Carefully move the candied yams and all the syrup into a baking dish. Spread them out into an even layer to ensure they cook evenly.
Cover and bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial baking time softens the sweet potatoes.
Uncover and continue baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes. This allows the syrup to thicken and the sweet potatoes to become tender and caramelized. The syrup should reduce to a rich, sticky glaze that clings to the potatoes.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Let it cool slightly: Allow the candied yams to stand for a few minutes after baking. The syrup will continue to thicken as it cools, becoming even more luscious.
Serve and enjoy: Dish out the yams as a sweet and savory side that’s sure to be the highlight of any meal.
Variations & Tips: Make It Your Own
Candied yams are a versatile dish that you can easily customize to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to try:

Add a Spirited Twist
Bourbon or Dark Rum: For a more complex flavor, stir a splash of bourbon or dark rum into the syrup mixture before adding the sweet potatoes. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a rich, deep flavor that complements the sweetness of the yams.
Top with Crunch
Pecans: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans over the yams during the last 10 minutes of baking. The nuts will toast in the oven, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender yams.
Make It Ahead
Reheat and Repurpose: These candied yams reheat wonderfully, making them perfect for holiday prep. You can also repurpose leftovers into a sweet potato casserole or even use them to make pancakes the next morning.
Adjust the Sweetness
Less Sweet: If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions: Pairing Your Candied Yams
Southern-Style Candied Yams are rich, sweet, and perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

Roasted Turkey or Glazed Ham: These yams are a classic side for holiday meals, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of turkey or ham.
Greens and Cornbread: Serve with collard or mustard greens and a side of buttery cornbread for a true Southern feast.
Light Salad: A crisp garden salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the yams, adding freshness to your meal.
Final Thoughts
Southern-Style Candied Yams are more than just a dish—they’re a piece of culinary history, a comforting tradition that brings warmth to any table. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or just because you’re craving something sweet and satisfying, these yams are sure to become a favorite.

So, gather your ingredients, channel that Southern hospitality, and create a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. With each bite, you’ll taste the love and care that goes into making these sweet, tender yams. Happy cooking!