15+ Christmas Yams Recipe Dive Into Deliciousness!
Published on: Mar 1, 2024
Christmas is a time for delicious food and heartwarming gatherings with loved ones. One dish that is often included in the festive spread is the classic Christmas yams. These sweet and savory root vegetables are a staple in many holiday meals, and for good reason. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also hold a special significance in various cultures and traditions. In this article, we will explore the history of this beloved dish and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect Christmas yams recipe.
Main Ingredients: Yam, Kosher Salt, Ground Black Pepper, Olive Oil
Roasted yams are the perfect side dish to complement your beer can chicken. Simply toss diced yams with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven until they are tender and caramelized. The natural sweetness of the yams pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the beer can chicken.
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Hasselback Potato Gratin
Main Ingredients: Gruyere Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Heavy Cream, Garlic
Take your traditional potato gratin to the next level by adding thinly sliced yams to the mix. The layers of potato and yam create a beautiful presentation and the creaminess of the gratin balances out the bold flavors of the beer can chicken. Don't be afraid to add some extra cheese for a deliciously indulgent twist.
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Praline Yams (Sweet Potatoes)
Main Ingredients: Yams, Orange, Fresh Orange Juice, Whiskey, Brown Sugar
For a sweet and nutty side dish, try making praline yams. The caramelized brown sugar and pecan topping adds a delicious crunch to the tender yams. Serve alongside your beer can chicken for a perfect balance of flavors.
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Maple Sage Smashed Yams with Marshmallow Butter
Main Ingredients: Yams, Half And Half Cream, Fresh Sage, Maple Syrup
If you're looking for a dish that screams fall, look no further than these maple sage smashed yams. The combination of earthy sage and sweet maple syrup makes for a mouthwatering flavor profile. Top it off with a dollop of marshmallow butter for a decadent touch.
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Baked Candied Yams - Soul Food Style
Main Ingredients: Yams, Salted Butter, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg
For a taste of the South, try making these soul food style candied yams. The yams are cooked in a sweet and buttery sauce until they are tender and caramelized. The sweetness of the yams pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the beer can chicken.
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Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Brown Sugar, Ground Nutmeg, Butter, Mini
If you're short on time, this simple candied yams recipe is the way to go. Just mix together brown sugar, butter, and spices and pour it over sliced yams before baking in the oven. The result is a sweet and sticky side dish that is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken.
This recipe takes the traditional candied yams to the next level by adding a crunchy pecan and oat topping. The combination of textures and flavors makes for a delicious and satisfying side dish that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
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The Best EVER Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Butter, Dark Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar
For a dish that truly lives up to its name, try making these best ever candied yams. The secret ingredient? Orange juice. The citrus adds a subtle tanginess to the dish that balances out the sweetness of the yams and creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
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Thanksgiving Maple Rosemary Whipped Yams Topped with...
Main Ingredients: Candied Pecans, Yams, Heavy Cream, Maple Syrup, Fresh
This Thanksgiving-inspired dish is a must-try for any beer can chicken lover. The whipped yams are flavored with maple syrup and fresh rosemary, and topped with crispy bacon and toasted pecans. The result is a sweet and savory side dish that will be the talk of the table.
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Slow Cooker Southern Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Cornstarch, White Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar
If your oven is already occupied with the beer can chicken, don't worry. You can still make delicious candied yams using your slow cooker. Just mix together the ingredients, set it and forget it, and come back to a perfectly cooked and flavorful side dish.
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Skinny Mashed Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Ground Cinnamon, Sea Salt, Water, Butter, Pepper
For a healthier take on traditional mashed potatoes, try making this skinny mashed yams recipe. The yams are cooked in chicken broth for a savory twist and mashed with Greek yogurt for added creaminess. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of freshness and flavor.
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Grandma's Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Butter, Brown Sugar
This recipe for candied yams is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. The yams are cooked in a delicious brown sugar and butter sauce until they are tender and caramelized. It's a classic dish that never goes out of style.
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Candied Yams-Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Yams, Sugar, Unsalted Butter, Mini Marshmallows, Ground
For a simple and delicious side dish, try making these candied yams using sweet potatoes. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the brown sugar and butter sauce, creating a dish that is both sweet and savory.
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Thanksgiving Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Pure Maple Syrup, Grassfed Butter, Nutmeg
Thanksgiving just wouldn't be complete without yams on the table. This recipe adds a twist to the traditional candied yams by using a combination of orange juice and cranberry sauce to create a tangy and flavorful sauce. Top it off with some toasted almonds for a satisfying crunch.
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Easy Sweet Potato Casserole from Canned Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Brown Sugar, Salt, Cinnamon, Egg, Melted Butter
If you're short on time, this easy sweet potato casserole is the way to go. It uses canned yams for convenience and is topped with a delicious mixture of brown sugar and pecans. It's a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken.
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Healthy Candied Yams!
Main Ingredients: Yam, Orange Juice, Maple Syrup, Cinnamon, Nutmeg
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional candied yams, give this recipe a try. The yams are cooked in a maple and coconut oil glaze, making them both delicious and nutritious. Plus, they are a great accompaniment to your beer can chicken without any guilt.
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Instant Pot Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Non Dairy Butter, Orange Juice, Coconut Sugar
The Instant Pot is a game changer when it comes to cooking yams. This recipe for candied yams uses the pressure cooker function to cook the yams in a delicious maple and brown sugar sauce in just a fraction of the time. It's a quick and easy side dish that doesn't sacrifice any flavor.
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Cuban Chicken With Chili Roasted Yams
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Orange Zest, Lime Zest, Garlic Cloves, Salt
For a unique twist on beer can chicken, try making this Cuban chicken recipe. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of citrus juices and spices and roasted to perfection. Serve it with chili roasted yams for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Porridge yams(Sese yams)
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Canola Oil, Fresh Tomatoes, Onion, Garlic
This traditional African dish is a must-try for any beer can chicken lover. The yams are cooked in a spicy tomato and peanut sauce, creating a flavorful and hearty porridge. It's a perfect comfort food to pair with your beer can chicken on a chilly day.
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Slow Cooker Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Brown Sugar, Honey, Butter, Canela, Nutmeg
If you're looking for a hands-off approach to making candied yams, this slow cooker recipe is the way to go. Just mix together the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work for you. The result is a delicious and tender side dish that pairs perfectly with your beer can chicken.
The History of Christmas Yams
The Origins
The yam, a starchy tuber that resembles a sweet potato, is believed to have originated in West Africa. It was brought to the United States by enslaved Africans and quickly became a popular ingredient in Southern cuisine. In fact, yams were a staple food for enslaved people during Christmas, as it was one of the few times they were given a break from their labor and could enjoy a festive meal.
The Cultural Significance
In many African American communities, yams are an important part of Christmas celebrations. They are often seen as a symbol of resilience and strength, representing the struggles and triumphs of the African American community. In some cultures, yams are also associated with fertility and abundance, making them a fitting addition to holiday feasts.
Making the Perfect Christmas Yams Recipe
Gather Your Ingredients
To make a delicious batch of Christmas yams, you will need:
Yams: Choose small to medium-sized yams that are firm and have a deep orange color.
Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and caramelization to the yams.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the flavor of the yams.
Marshmallows: Optional, but highly recommended for a gooey and sweet topping.
Prepare and Cook
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and cut the yams into 1-inch cubes.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the yams, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to coat the yams evenly.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes.
6. Add a layer of marshmallows on top of the yams and return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are lightly browned.
7. Let the yams cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy the Deliciousness
Once your Christmas yams are cooked to perfection, it's time to dig in! Serve them as a side dish alongside your holiday ham or turkey, or enjoy them as a sweet and satisfying dessert. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these yams are sure to be a hit at your Christmas gathering.
Now that you know the history and steps for making the perfect Christmas yams recipe, it's time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. Your friends and family will be impressed by your culinary skills and the delicious addition to their holiday meal. Happy holidays and happy cooking!