The Jamaican culture is rich and vibrant, and one of the most iconic and beloved dishes is the Jamaican yam. Yams are a staple in Jamaican cuisine and are known for their versatility and delicious taste. This starchy root vegetable can be prepared in a variety of ways, but one of the most popular and traditional methods is through a Jamaican yam recipe. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make this mouth-watering dish and give you a taste of Jamaica in the comfort of your own home. So let's get cooking!
Main Ingredients: Yam, Kosher Salt, Ground Black Pepper, Olive Oil
Roasted yams make for a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with any meal. The natural sweetness of the yams is enhanced by the roasting process, making them a crowd-pleasing favorite. Here are 20 roasted yam recipes that will take your taste buds on a flavorful journey.
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Baked Candied Yams - Soul Food Style
Main Ingredients: Yams, Salted Butter, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg
If you're looking for a soulful and comforting dish, these baked candied yams are the perfect choice. Slowly baked in a brown sugar and butter glaze, these yams will melt in your mouth with each bite. Serve them up at your next family gathering and watch them disappear in no time.
Southern-style cooking is known for its rich flavors and this recipe for baked candied yams is no exception. The yams are simmered in a syrupy mixture of brown sugar, butter, and spices, resulting in a sweet and savory side dish that will leave you wanting more.
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Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Brown Sugar, Ground Nutmeg, Butter, Mini
If you're looking for a classic and foolproof candied yam recipe, this one is for you. The yams are coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze and baked to perfection. It's a simple and delicious way to enjoy this tasty root vegetable.
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The Best EVER Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Butter, Dark Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar
If you want to take your candied yams to the next level, this is the recipe for you. The secret ingredient? Marshmallows! These candied yams are topped with a layer of gooey, toasted marshmallows that add a sweet and creamy element to the dish. It's a must-try for any sweet tooth.
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Slow Cooker Southern Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Cornstarch, White Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar
For an effortless and hands-off approach to making candied yams, try this slow cooker recipe. Simply mix together the yams, brown sugar, and spices in your crockpot and let it simmer away until they are tender and coated in a flavorful glaze. It's the perfect side dish for a busy weeknight dinner.
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Skinny Mashed Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Ground Cinnamon, Sea Salt, Water, Butter, Pepper
If you're watching your calorie intake but still craving the comforting taste of mashed yams, this recipe is for you. These skinny mashed yams use Greek yogurt in place of butter and cream, providing a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. It's a guilt-free indulgence that will satisfy your cravings.
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Grandma's Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Butter, Brown Sugar
There's nothing quite like the taste of a dish made from a cherished family recipe. This candied yam recipe has been passed down from generation to generation and is sure to become a favorite in your family as well. The yams are baked in a brown sugar and cinnamon glaze, resulting in a sweet and aromatic dish that will have you coming back for seconds.
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Candied Yams-Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Yams, Sugar, Unsalted Butter, Mini Marshmallows, Ground
While yams and sweet potatoes are often used interchangeably, they are actually two different root vegetables. This recipe calls for sweet potatoes and is a delicious alternative to traditional candied yams. The sweet potatoes are coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze and topped with pecans for an added crunch.
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Thanksgiving Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Pure Maple Syrup, Grassfed Butter, Nutmeg
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a side of candied yams. This recipe is a holiday favorite and for good reason – the yams are slow-cooked in a mixture of orange juice, brown sugar, and nutmeg, resulting in a dish that is both sweet and tangy. It's the perfect addition to any Thanksgiving dinner table.
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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 but still want to enjoy the flavors of sweet potatoes, this easy casserole recipe is for you. It uses canned yams as a shortcut and is topped with a buttery and crunchy cornflake and pecan topping. It's a quick and tasty way to satisfy your sweet potato cravings.
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Healthy Candied Yams!
Main Ingredients: Yam, Orange Juice, Maple Syrup, Cinnamon, Nutmeg
Yes, you read that right – healthy candied yams do exist! This recipe uses honey and coconut oil in place of traditional brown sugar and butter, providing a lower calorie and healthier alternative. But don't worry, you won't sacrifice any flavor with this dish – it's just as delicious as the original.
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Instant Pot Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Non Dairy Butter, Orange Juice, Coconut Sugar
The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, and this recipe for candied yams is no exception. Using the pressure cooking function, these yams are ready in a fraction of the time it would take to bake them in the oven. The result is tender and flavorful yams that are perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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Cuban Chicken With Chili Roasted Yams
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Orange Zest, Lime Zest, Garlic Cloves, Salt
If you're tired of the same old roasted yam recipes, this one will add a bit of variety to your meal plan. This recipe combines roasted yams with cuban-style chicken, creating a flavorful and spicy main dish. It's a great way to mix up your dinner routine and try something new.
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Porridge yams(Sese yams)
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Canola Oil, Fresh Tomatoes, Onion, Garlic
In many cultures, yams are a staple food and are often used in a variety of dishes. This recipe for porridge yams, also known as sese yams, is a popular dish in West Africa. The yams are cooked in a flavorful broth and served with a side of plantains for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Slow Cooker Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Brown Sugar, Honey, Butter, Canela, Nutmeg
If you're looking for a simple and hands-off approach to making candied yams, look no further than this slow cooker recipe. The yams are cooked in a honey and maple syrup glaze, resulting in a dish that is both sweet and savory. It's the perfect side dish for any holiday gathering.
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Maple-Glazed Yams with Pecan Topping
Main Ingredients: Yams, Salt, Orange Zest, Maple Syrup, Butter, Pecans
This elevated version of candied yams is perfect for a special occasion or holiday dinner. The yams are coated in a sweet and sticky maple syrup glaze and topped with toasted pecans for added texture and flavor. It's a decadent and delicious dish that is sure to impress.
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Balsamic Roasted Yams and Onions
Main Ingredients: Yams, Onions, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Ground
If you're a fan of roasted vegetables, you'll love this recipe for balsamic roasted yams and onions. The tangy and slightly sweet balsamic vinegar pairs well with the natural sweetness of the yams, creating a delicious and healthy side dish. It's a great way to switch up your usual roasted vegetable routine.
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Candied Crock pot Yams
Main Ingredients: Butter, Vanilla Extract, Salt, Granulated Sugar, Firmly
Another slow cooker option for candied yams, this recipe uses a crock pot to cook the yams to perfection. The yams are coated in a syrupy mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, resulting in a dish that is both sweet and spicy. It's a great option for a busy day when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal.
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Trump Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Cooked Pulled Pork, Salt, Pepper
This recipe may have a funny name, but the taste is seriously delicious. These yams are baked in a mixture of orange juice, lemon juice, and honey, resulting in a dish that is both tangy and sweet. It's a unique and tasty way to enjoy roasted yams that will have you saying "yum" instead of "Trump".
The Importance of Yams in Jamaican Cuisine
Yams have been a significant part of Jamaican culture for centuries. They were introduced to the island by African slaves and quickly became a staple in their diet. Yams are not only delicious, but they are also highly nutritious, making them an essential ingredient in Jamaican cuisine. They are a great source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins, making them an excellent option for those looking for a healthy and filling meal. Yams are also a symbol of strength and prosperity in Jamaican culture, and as such, they are often served during special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients for Jamaican Yam Recipe
To make this traditional Jamaican dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 large Jamaican yams, peeled and chopped into large chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can of coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of curry powder
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions for Making Jamaican Yam Recipe
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and peppers to the pot and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the yams to the pot and stir to coat them with the vegetable mixture.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and enough water to cover the yams.
5. Stir in the all-purpose seasoning, thyme, black pepper, and curry powder.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the yams are tender.
7. Once the yams are cooked, remove them from the pot and place them in a separate bowl.
8. Using a potato masher or fork, mash the yams until they are a smooth consistency.
9. Return the mashed yams to the pot and stir to combine with the remaining ingredients.
10. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
11. Add salt to taste.
12. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Enjoy a Taste of Jamaica with This Delicious Dish
With its creamy texture and flavorful spices, this Jamaican yam recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it as a side dish to your favorite Jamaican-inspired main course, or enjoy it as a standalone meal. The possibilities are endless, and with this recipe, you can bring a taste of Jamaica to your kitchen anytime. So put on some reggae music and get cooking, mon!