Soul Food Candied Yams Skillet (Printer View)

Tender yams cooked in brown sugar syrup with cinnamon and vanilla, finished in a skillet for rich flavor.

# Components:

→ Yams

01 - 3 large yams (about 2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds

→ Syrup

02 - 1 cup packed light brown sugar
03 - 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
04 - 1/4 cup water
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Optional Garnish

09 - 1/4 cup chopped pecans

# Method:

01 - In a large 12-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
02 - Arrange the yam slices evenly in the skillet, turning to coat each piece thoroughly in the syrup.
03 - Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, gently stirring and turning the yams occasionally to ensure even cooking and glazing.
04 - Remove the lid and raise the heat to medium. Continue cooking for 10 to 15 minutes, spooning syrup over the yams continuously, until they are fork-tender and the sauce is thick and glossy.
05 - Stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Simple ingredients create incredible depth of flavor
  • Ready in just 50 minutes from start to finish
  • Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free
  • Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners
  • The skillet method creates beautifully caramelized edges
02 -
  • Use a large skillet to ensure yams cook in a single layer for even caramelization
  • Keep the heat at medium-low during the covered phase to prevent scorching
  • Baste frequently during the final uncovered cooking for maximum glaze coverage
  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the syrup to set slightly
  • Leftovers reheat beautifully in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water
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