The sweet and comforting taste of candied yams is a staple of many holiday meals, particularly in the United States. This classic side dish is a crowd-pleaser, and its sweet, sticky flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses, from roasted turkey to baked ham. While traditional candied yams are often cooked on the stovetop or in the oven, making them in a slow cooker is a game-changer. Not only is it easier, but it also frees up valuable oven space and allows you to focus on other aspects of your meal. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of making candied yams in a slow cooker and provide a simple, step-by-step recipe to get you started.
The Benefits of Slow Cooker Candied Yams
There are several advantages to making candied yams in a slow cooker. Here are a few:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are designed to make cooking easier and more convenient. Simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work for you.
- Space-saving: Slow cookers are perfect for busy kitchens, as they take up less space than traditional cooking methods. This is especially useful during the holidays, when oven space is at a premium.
- Easy to serve: Slow cooker candied yams are easy to serve, as they can be kept warm in the slow cooker until you’re ready to serve. This makes them perfect for buffet-style meals or large gatherings.
A Simple Slow Cooker Candied Yams Recipe
Making candied yams in a slow cooker is easier than you think. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| ———- | ——– |
| Large yams | 2-3 |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Marshmallows | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
Instructions:
- Peel and slice the yams: Start by peeling the yams and slicing them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced yams, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt: Toss the yams to coat them evenly with the sugar and spice mixture.
- Transfer the yam mixture to the slow cooker: Add the yam mixture to the slow cooker, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
- Dot the top with butter: Cut the butter into small pieces and dot the top of the yam mixture with them.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours: Cook the candied yams on low for 6-8 hours, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
- Add the marshmallows: About 30 minutes before serving, add the marshmallows to the slow cooker. They’ll melt and create a sweet, sticky glaze.
- Serve: Serve the slow cooker candied yams hot, garnished with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the most of your slow cooker candied yams:
- Use fresh yams: Fresh yams are essential for the best flavor and texture. Look for yams that are firm and free of bruises or blemishes.
- Don’t overcook: Candied yams can quickly become mushy and overcooked. Check on them regularly during the last hour of cooking to ensure they’re tender but still hold their shape.
- Add a splash of citrus: A squeeze of fresh orange or lemon juice can add a bright, citrusy flavor to your candied yams.
- Try different spices: Experiment with different spices, such as ground ginger or ground cloves, to add depth and warmth to your candied yams.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making slow cooker candied yams, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcrowding the slow cooker: Make sure to leave enough space at the top of the slow cooker for the yams to cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to mushy, undercooked yams.
- Not stirring the yams: Stir the yams occasionally during cooking to ensure they’re coated evenly with the sugar and spice mixture.
- Not checking on the yams: Check on the yams regularly during the last hour of cooking to ensure they’re tender but still hold their shape.
Conclusion
Slow cooker candied yams are a delicious and easy side dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion. With their sweet, sticky flavor and tender texture, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By following the simple recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can create a mouthwatering side dish that’s sure to impress. So why not give slow cooker candied yams a try? Your taste buds – and your guests – will thank you.
What is the best type of yam to use for Slow Cooker Candied Yams?
The best type of yam to use for Slow Cooker Candied Yams is the Jewel or Beauregard variety. These types of yams are sweeter and have a softer texture, making them perfect for candying. They are also widely available in most supermarkets, especially during the holidays.
When selecting yams, choose ones that are firm and have no signs of mold or soft spots. You can also use other types of sweet potatoes, but keep in mind that they may have a slightly different flavor and texture.
How do I prepare the yams for the slow cooker?
To prepare the yams for the slow cooker, start by washing them thoroughly and drying them with a paper towel. Then, peel the yams using a vegetable peeler and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. You can also cut them into cubes or wedges if you prefer.
Next, place the sliced yams in the slow cooker and add the remaining ingredients, including the brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until the yams are evenly coated with the sugar and spice mixture.
Can I make Slow Cooker Candied Yams ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Slow Cooker Candied Yams ahead of time. In fact, this recipe is perfect for busy holiday meals because it can be prepared up to a day in advance. Simply prepare the yams and sugar mixture as instructed, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.
When you’re ready to cook the yams, simply place them in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This will ensure that the yams are tender and caramelized to perfection.
How do I prevent the yams from becoming too mushy?
To prevent the yams from becoming too mushy, make sure to slice them thinly and evenly. This will help them cook consistently and prevent them from becoming overcooked. You can also check on the yams periodically during the cooking time and adjust the heat as needed.
Additionally, you can add a little bit of cornstarch or flour to the sugar mixture to help thicken the sauce and prevent the yams from becoming too soggy.
Can I add other ingredients to the Slow Cooker Candied Yams?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the Slow Cooker Candied Yams to give them extra flavor and texture. Some ideas include diced apples, chopped nuts, or even a splash of bourbon or rum. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the yams before serving for extra flavor.
When adding other ingredients, just be sure to adjust the cooking time and heat as needed. You may also need to adjust the amount of sugar and spices in the recipe depending on the ingredients you add.
How do I serve Slow Cooker Candied Yams?
Slow Cooker Candied Yams are a delicious side dish that can be served at any time of the year. They’re especially popular during the holidays, but they’re also great for family dinners or special occasions. To serve, simply spoon the yams into a serving dish and top with any desired toppings, such as chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
You can also serve the yams alongside other classic holiday dishes, such as roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and green beans. They’re a great way to add some sweetness and flavor to your meal.
Can I make Slow Cooker Candied Yams in a smaller batch?
Yes, you can make Slow Cooker Candied Yams in a smaller batch if you need to. Simply reduce the amount of ingredients in the recipe and adjust the cooking time as needed. Keep in mind that the yams may cook more quickly in a smaller batch, so be sure to check on them periodically to prevent overcooking.
When making a smaller batch, you can also use a smaller slow cooker or even a Dutch oven on the stovetop. Just be sure to adjust the heat and cooking time as needed to ensure that the yams are tender and caramelized to perfection.