Candied yams with orange juice are a delightful twist on a classic dish that can bring a burst of flavor to your table. This savory and sweet side dish is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just to add a little something extra to your everyday meals. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of making candied yams with orange juice and discover how this delicious combination can elevate your dining experience.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Choosing the Right Yams
The first step in making candied yams with orange juice is to gather your ingredients. When it comes to selecting the right yams, it is important to choose the ones that are firm and free from any soft spots or blemishes. You can usually find yams at your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Look for ones that have smooth skin and are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
Other Essential Ingredients
In addition to yams, you will need a few other essential ingredients to make this dish. Here’s a list of what you will need:
– Orange juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is ideal, but you can also use store-bought orange juice.
– Brown sugar: This will add sweetness and richness to your candied yams.
– Butter: Unsalted butter works best for this recipe.
– Ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor to the dish.
– Salt: A pinch of salt can help balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Preparing the Yams
Peeling and Slicing
Before you can start cooking, you’ll need to prepare the yams. Begin by peeling the skin off the yams using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Once peeled, slice the yams into thick, round medallions. Aim for slices that are about half an inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
Parboiling the Yams
Parboiling the yams can help speed up the cooking process and ensure they are tender and fully cooked. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water and carefully add the yam slices. Let them cook for about 5 minutes or until they are slightly tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the next steps.
Making the Candied Yams
Preparing the Orange Juice Mixture
Once the yams are parboiled, it’s time to make the candied coating. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the brown sugar, orange juice, and ground cinnamon. Stir the mixture well, ensuring that the brown sugar is fully dissolved. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy.
Coating the Yams
With the orange juice mixture ready, it’s time to coat the parboiled yams. Carefully transfer the yam slices into a casserole dish or a baking pan. Pour the orange juice mixture over the yams, ensuring that each slice is evenly coated. Use a spoon or spatula to gently toss the yams, making sure they are fully immersed in the flavorful syrup.
Baking the Candied Yams
Now that your yams are coated and ready, it’s time to bake them. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to trap the heat and moisture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the yams bake for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the yams are tender and caramelized.
Adding a Finishing Touch
Garnishing with Orange Zest
To add an extra zing of orange flavor and a vibrant touch to your candied yams, consider garnishing them with freshly grated orange zest. The zest can be sprinkled over the top of the dish just before serving. It not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall citrusy flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Candied yams with orange juice can be served as a side dish alongside roasted meats, poultry, or even vegetarian mains. They pair exceptionally well with holiday classics like roast turkey or glazed ham. You can also enjoy them as part of a vegetarian meal by pairing them with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Leftovers and Storage
If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Candied yams can last for up to 3-4 days when properly stored. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
In conclusion, making candied yams with orange juice is a fantastic way to elevate a classic dish and bring a burst of flavor to your table. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can impress your family and friends with this delightful and unique side dish. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just adding a twist to your everyday meals, candied yams with orange juice are sure to be a hit. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness of this sweet and savory creation!