As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aroma of honey and ginger swirling through the air, I couldn’t help but feel the nostalgia wrap around me like a cozy blanket. This is the magic of Honey Ginger Candied Yams, a delightful twist on a classic that effortlessly balances sweet and savory notes, making it the perfect holiday side dish. Not only are these yams a comforting crowd-pleaser that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, but they also offer a healthy upgrade to the often overly sweet alternatives. The golden caramelization paired with the crunchy pecans adds irresistible texture that truly elevates your meal. Ready to explore this easy and scrumptious recipe? Let’s dive in!
Why are Honey Ginger Candied Yams special?
Comforting Flavor: The rich complexity of honey and ginger transforms ordinary yams into a sensational dish that pulls you in with each bite.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive side that’s perfect for any gathering.
Versatile Choice: Feel free to swap in sweet potatoes or alternate nuts like walnuts for a unique twist that caters to your tastes.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish marries the beloved flavors of tradition with a modern touch, ensuring it fits right into your holiday spread.
Perfect Texture: The combination of tender yams and crunchy pecans gives every serving a satisfying bite. Serve alongside your favorite mains, or check out some options like Honey Garlic Shrimp for a complete festive meal!
Honey Ginger Candied Yams Ingredients
For the Yams
• Yams or Sweet Potatoes – Choose firm garnet or jewel yams for the best texture and sweetness.
• Olive Oil – This helps roast the yams perfectly; can be substituted with vegetable oil if desired.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing flavors and balancing the sweetness of the dish.
For the Spice Glaze
• Honey – The primary sweetener that infuses depth and shine; maple syrup makes a delightful alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Provides that luscious caramel flavor; light or dark sugar works just as well.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and complexity; nutmeg is a great substitute if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Ground Ginger – This infuses the dish with a fabulous spice; fresh ginger offers an even more potent option.
For the Topping
• Pecans (optional) – Adds crunch and richness; feel free to swap for walnuts or almonds!
• Flaky Finishing Salt – This sprinkle enhances sweetness and gives the dish a gourmet touch.
Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare for a delightful culinary experience with your Honey Ginger Candied Yams!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Ginger Candied Yams
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is vital for roasting the yams to perfection, allowing them to caramelize beautifully. Once heated, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking, ensuring an easy clean-up after your Honey Ginger Candied Yams are finished baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Yams
While the oven heats, wash and peel your yams or sweet potatoes. Cut them into 1/4-inch thick slices, aiming for even sizes to ensure consistent cooking. In a large bowl, toss these slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they are well-coated. This flavorful base will help your yams roast nicely, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Initial Bake
Spread the sliced yams in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes. After this time, the edges should be slightly golden, and they will start to soften. This initial bake is essential to create a tender texture before slathering them in the glorious honey ginger glaze.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
As the yams roast, prepare the honey ginger glaze. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the mixture is well combined and the sugar dissolves. Make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning, then remove from heat once it’s smooth and ready to coat your honey ginger candied yams.
Step 5: Glaze Application
Once the yams have completed their initial bake, carefully remove them from the oven. Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each yam slice with the honey ginger glaze on both sides. Make sure every piece is covered, allowing the flavors to soak in deeply as they continue to cook. This glaze is what will create the delightful caramelization you envision in your Honey Ginger Candied Yams.
Step 6: Add Pecans
After glazing, sprinkle the pecans evenly over the yams, dispersing them generously for crunch in every bite. If you prefer, you can substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different twist. The pecans will toast and add a rich, nutty flavor as the yams finish baking, enhancing the overall texture of this comforting dish.
Step 7: Final Bake
Return the baking sheet to the hot oven and let it roast for an additional 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you’re looking for a beautifully caramelized finish that’s golden brown. The yams should become tender throughout, while the glaze bubbles and begins to thicken, creating that irresistible candy-like coating that defines Honey Ginger Candied Yams.
Step 8: Serve
Once the yams are beautifully caramelized and fragrant, transfer them to a serving platter. To finish, sprinkle with flaky finishing salt to enhance the sweetness and add that gourmet touch. These Honey Ginger Candied Yams are now ready to be enjoyed as a perfect holiday side dish or any comforting meal you desire!
Expert Tips for Honey Ginger Candied Yams
-
Slice Thickness: Cut yams to about 1/4-inch thick for even cooking and optimal caramelization. Avoid slices that are too thin or thick, as they may burn or undercook.
-
Pan Space: Give your yams ample space on the baking sheet to roast rather than steam. Overcrowding can lead to a mushy texture instead of a perfect caramelized finish.
-
Timing for Glaze: Apply the honey ginger glaze after the initial roasting to prevent burning. This ensures that the glaze sticks and enriches the flavor of your Honey Ginger Candied Yams.
-
Pecan Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the pecans during the final bake to prevent burning. Adding them halfway through will achieve the perfect toasty flavor without risk.
-
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to play with spices by substituting cinnamon or adding a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick. This adds a unique twist while balancing the sweetness of the yams.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Ginger Candied Yams are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can slice the yams and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the honey ginger glaze can be prepared ahead of time; simply combine the ingredients and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, roast the yams as directed and apply the glaze before the final bake. This method ensures your yams come out just as delicious and beautifully caramelized, making your holiday meal prep a breeze!
Honey Ginger Candied Yams Variations
Feel free to make these Honey Ginger Candied Yams your own with these fun and tasty twists!
-
Sweet Potato Swap: Use pale-fleshed sweet potatoes for a slightly less sweet yet delicious alternative. The flavors will still shine through effortlessly!
-
Nutty Flavor Boost: Try incorporating chopped walnuts instead of pecans for a heartier crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the yams.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a hint of cayenne pepper or chili powder to your glaze for a delightful spicy contrast that elevates every bite to a whole new level.
-
Maple Glaze: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for a unique flavor twist that brings a lovely amber sweetness to your candied yams—a perfect autumn flavor change!
-
Citrus Zing: Mix in a bit of fresh orange or lemon zest to the glaze for a bright note that enhances the warmth of ginger and the sweetness of honey.
-
Vegan Delight: Replace honey with agave nectar and the butter with coconut oil for a vegan version that’s just as delightful.
-
Herb Infusion: Stir some fresh thyme or rosemary into the glaze for a fragrant, earthy twist that beautifully complements the caramelized yams.
-
Crunchy Topping Mix: Experiment with a mix of different nuts and seeds, like almonds and sunflower seeds, for added texture and flavor variety that keeps each bite interesting.
Happy cooking, and don’t be afraid to explore more delightful side dishes like Sweet Potatoes Honey to complement your festive gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Ginger Candied Yams
Fridge: Store any leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you want to make ahead, freeze the yams in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To restore moisture, reheat your Honey Ginger Candied Yams in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, adding a drizzle of honey if they seem dry.
Make-Ahead Tip: Consider preparing the glaze and yams in advance, then bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve for a delightful warm dish.
What to Serve with Honey Ginger Candied Yams
Indulge in a chorus of flavors that will make your holiday meal truly unforgettable.
- Roasted Turkey: A classic favorite, turkey’s savory juiciness balances the sweetness of the yams beautifully, creating a harmonious feast.
- Glazed Ham: Its rich, savory profile complements the honeyed yams, bringing a delightful contrast that’s simply irresistible.
- Brussels Sprouts: The crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts adds a fresh touch that lightens the sweetness of the candied yams, enhancing your plate.
- Green Bean Almondine: The bright, crisp green beans, paired with toasted almonds, offer a perfect crunchy counterpoint to the tender yams.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Soft and flaky, biscuits provide a comforting, buttery element that pairs wonderfully with the spices of the yams.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, offering a refreshing palate cleanser that invigorates every bite.
- Wild Rice Pilaf: Earthy flavors and nutty textures in the pilaf complement the sweet yams while providing a hearty touch.
- Spiced Mulled Wine: Warm and fragrant, this drink echoes the spices used in your yams, creating a cozy atmosphere around the table.
- Pumpkin Pie: A dessert classic, the spiced notes in pumpkin pie resonate with the ageless flavors in the yams, making the perfect festive closure.
Honey Ginger Candied Yams Recipe FAQs
What kind of yams or sweet potatoes should I use?
For the best flavor and texture in your Honey Ginger Candied Yams, I highly recommend using firm garnet or jewel yams. These varieties have the right balance of sweetness and structure, which creates that delightful contrast when caramelized. If you’re looking for a lighter option, pale-fleshed sweet potatoes work beautifully too!
How should I store leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams?
Absolutely! Leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s always great to enjoy this comforting dish again! Just make sure they cool completely before sealing them up to capture all that delicious flavor.
Can I freeze Honey Ginger Candied Yams?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Honey Ginger Candied Yams, simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove excess air, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight, and reheat in a preheated oven for the best texture.
What should I do if my yams are cooking unevenly?
If you find that your yams are cooking unevenly, there’s a quick fix! First, make sure they are sliced to an even thickness—aim for 1/4 inch. If they’re already in the oven and some are browning too quickly, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking or gently rearrange the yams to ensure all pieces get equal exposure to the heat. This simple adjustment can make a big difference!
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Definitely! As with any recipe, it’s important to consider allergies or dietary needs. The Honey Ginger Candied Yams recipe contains honey, which can be tricky for vegans. Feel free to substitute it with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option. Additionally, if you’re replacing pecans for other nuts, be mindful of nut allergies and consider using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch instead.
Honey Ginger Candied Yams with a Crunchy Pecan Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and prepare your baking sheet.
- Wash and peel the yams or sweet potatoes, then cut them into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Toss yam slices with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well-coated.
- Spread the sliced yams in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast for about 15 minutes.
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Stir for about 2 minutes until well combined.
- Remove yams from the oven, coat with the honey ginger glaze, and sprinkle with pecans.
- Return to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until caramelized.
- Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with flaky finishing salt before serving.
Leave a Reply