Candied yams are a beloved dish during the holidays, and this vegan version is just as delicious. If you’re looking for a plant-based sweet potato dish to add to your holiday spread, this recipe is the perfect choice. It’s a healthy holiday side dish that can also be enjoyed as a homemade veggie comfort food any time of the year. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering flavors, this vegan candied yams recipe is bound to become a favorite on your vegetarian Thanksgiving menu.
So, how to make vegan candied yams? Let’s get started with the recipe!
Ingredients and Preparation
Your vegan candied yams recipe calls for a handful of simple and easily accessible ingredients. To start, gather vegan butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a selection of aromatic spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The star of the dish is, of course, the sweet potatoes. Peel and slice them into ¼ inch thick pieces, ready to be transformed into a delicious culinary creation. For an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence, you can add vegan marshmallows on top.
Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven and lightly grease a baking dish. In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter and stir in the spices, sugars, and vanilla extract until well combined. Arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in the baking dish and pour the butter mixture over them, ensuring each slice is coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it for the specified amount of time. Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the foil, add the vegan marshmallows on top, and continue baking until they are lightly browned.
Variations and Tips
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several variations and tips you can explore to customize your vegan candied yams. Consider adding dried fruit like raisins or dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Enhance the citrus notes in the dish by adding a touch of orange zest. For a hint of warmth, sprinkle in a small amount of cardamom. Pecans can be included either as a topping or mixed into the dish for added crunch. If you prefer a mashed sweet potato casserole, cook the sweet potatoes separately and then combine them with the sweet sauce before topping with marshmallows. Finally, switch up the traditional marshmallow topping by using a pecan streusel crumble instead.
Storing and Reheating
What do you do with leftovers? Fear not! If you have any vegan candied yams left, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. If you wish to freeze the dish, allow it to cool and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Before reheating, thaw it in the refrigerator. To warm up the vegan candied yams, you have the option of using the microwave or the oven, adjusting the cooking time based on portion size and the power of your appliance.
Conclusion
Vegan candied yams are a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional holiday dish. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other holiday, these candied yams are sure to be a hit with family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a homemade version of this classic favorite. So why not add this delightful plant-based comfort food to your menu? Try out this recipe and savor the sweet and savory flavors of vegan candied yams.
Key Takeaways:
- Vegan candied yams are a delicious and healthy holiday side dish.
- This plant-based sweet potato dish can be enjoyed during the holidays or as a comforting meal on its own.
- The recipe is easy to make and requires simple ingredients like vegan butter, brown sugar, and spices.
- Don’t forget the vegan marshmallows for an extra touch of sweetness!
- Experiment with variations like dried fruit, orange zest, cardamom, and pecans for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make delicious vegan candied yams, you’ll need a few key ingredients that are both flavorful and plant-based. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- Vegan butter
- Brown sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)
- Sweet potatoes
- Vegan marshmallows (optional)
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing the dish.
Preparation:
- Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and slicing them into ¼-inch thick pieces. Set them aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a combination of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the melted butter. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Once the mixture is smooth and well combined, remove it from heat.
- Preheat your oven to the specified temperature.
- Arrange the sliced sweet potatoes in a baking dish and pour the butter mixture over them. Make sure to coat each potato evenly.
- Optional: If you want to add an extra touch of sweetness and indulgence, scatter vegan marshmallows over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the flavors and moisture.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for the specified amount of time, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for a little longer if you prefer a golden brown crust on top.
- Once ready, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Now, your vegan candied yams are ready to be savored! The combination of the sweet potatoes, vegan butter, brown sugar, and aromatic spices creates a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Add dried fruit | For an extra burst of flavor and texture, you can add dried fruit like raisins or dried cranberries to your candied yams. |
| Try orange zest | Enhance the citrus notes in the dish by adding a touch of orange zest. |
| Experiment with spices | If you enjoy warm and aromatic flavors, consider incorporating a small amount of cardamom into the spice mixture. |
| Add pecans | For some added crunch, you can top your candied yams with pecans or mix them into the dish. |
| Mash the sweet potatoes | If you prefer a mashed sweet potato casserole, cook the sweet potatoes separately and then combine them with the sweet sauce before topping with marshmallows. |
| Try a crumble topping | Switch up the traditional marshmallow topping by using a pecan streusel crumble instead. |
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking your vegan candied yams. Follow these easy steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will delight your taste buds.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to the specified temperature. This will ensure that your sweet potatoes cook evenly and become tender and delicious.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking. This will make it easier to serve your vegan candied yams later on.
Step 3: Melt the Vegan Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the vegan butter over low heat. Once melted, add the spices, sugars, and vanilla extract to the pan.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Stir the mixture until the spices, sugars, and vanilla extract are well combined with the melted butter. This will create a flavorful sauce that will coat the sweet potatoes beautifully.
Step 5: Arrange the Sweet Potatoes
Take your sliced sweet potatoes and arrange them neatly in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they are spread out evenly to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Pour the Butter Mixture
Pour the melted butter mixture over the sweet potatoes, ensuring that every slice is coated with the delicious sauce.
Step 7: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap in the flavors and moisture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for the specified amount of time.
Step 8: Add the Vegan Marshmallows
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the vegan marshmallows on top of the sweet potatoes, covering them evenly.
Step 9: Continue Baking
Return the dish to the oven without the foil and continue baking until the vegan marshmallows turn lightly browned and gooey, creating a delightful topping for your candied yams.
And voila! Your vegan candied yams are ready to be enjoyed. Serve them as a delicious side dish or a comforting meal on their own.
Pro Tip:
For an extra caramelized touch, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end to achieve a crispy, golden crust on the marshmallows.
Variations and Tips
Customize your vegan candied yams with these delightful variations and helpful tips. Get creative and make your dish truly unique!
Additional Flavors
To enhance the flavor and texture of your vegan candied yams, consider adding these ingredients:
- Dried fruit: For a burst of sweetness, incorporate dried fruit such as raisins or dried cranberries.
- Orange zest: Add a refreshing citrus note by sprinkling some orange zest on top.
- Cardamom: For a touch of warmth, sprinkle in a small amount of cardamom to elevate the flavors.
- Pecans: Include pecans either as a topping or mix them into the dish for added crunch and nuttiness.
Mashed Sweet Potato Casserole
If you prefer a mashed sweet potato casserole instead of sliced yams, try this variation:
- Cook the sweet potatoes separately until tender.
- Mash the sweet potatoes and mix them with the sweet sauce made from vegan butter, brown sugar, and spices.
- Transfer the mashed sweet potatoes to a baking dish and top with vegan marshmallows or a pecan streusel crumble.
Switching Up the Topping
For a unique twist on the traditional marshmallow topping, try using a pecan streusel crumble:
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 cup all-purpose flour | Mix the flour, brown sugar, pecans, and melted vegan butter in a bowl until crumbly. |
| 1/2 cup brown sugar | |
| 1/2 cup chopped pecans | |
| 1/4 cup melted vegan butter | |
| Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes. |
These variations and tips will give your vegan candied yams a delightful twist. Feel free to experiment and make the recipe your own!
Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious vegan candied yams, you may be wondering how to store any leftovers properly. Luckily, it’s easy to keep these delectable treats fresh for later enjoyment.
If you have any leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. The candied yams can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days, allowing you to savor them over multiple meals. Just make sure the container is tightly sealed to maintain the flavors.
If you want to extend the shelf life even further, you can freeze the candied yams. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to divide the yams into individual portions for easy thawing and reheating later on.
Prior to reheating, thaw the frozen candied yams in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing ensures that the dish retains its texture and flavor. Avoid defrosting at room temperature to prevent bacteria growth.
When it’s time to enjoy your reheated candied yams, you have two convenient options: microwave or oven.
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is the quickest way to warm up your leftovers. Simply place a portion of the candied yams in a microwave-safe dish and cover it to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until the yams are thoroughly warmed. Cooking times may vary based on portion size and microwave power, so adjust accordingly.
For a more oven-like consistency, reheating in the oven is the way to go. Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature and place the candied yams in a baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake until the yams are heated through and reach your desired level of warmth. This method takes a bit longer but results in a more evenly heated dish.
Whether you choose the microwave or oven method, be mindful of the cooking time to avoid overcooking. You want to reheat the candied yams just enough to bring out their delicious flavors.
Pro Tip: To add an extra touch of indulgence, you can sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the reheated candied yams for enhanced aroma and flavor.
Now that you know how to store and reheat your vegan candied yams, you can enjoy the leftovers without any compromise in taste or texture. So go ahead and savor these delightful treats even after the holiday feasting is over!
Conclusion
Vegan candied yams are a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional holiday dish. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any other holiday, these plant-based yams are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a homemade version of this classic favorite. The sweet and savory flavors of these vegan candied yams can be enjoyed as a side dish, a dessert, or even as a comforting meal on their own.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different variations. Add dried fruit for a burst of flavor, sprinkle in some cardamom for warmth, or top with pecans for added crunch. The possibilities are endless!
So why not try this healthier twist on a beloved holiday dish? Whip up a batch of vegan candied yams and delight your taste buds with the delicious flavors of this plant-based comfort food.
FAQ
Are candied yams and sweet potatoes the same thing?
No, they are not the same. While both candied yams and sweet potatoes are root vegetables, they come from different plant species. Candied yams are actually a variety of sweet potatoes that have a deep orange flesh and sweeter taste.
Can I use regular butter instead of vegan butter?
Yes, you can substitute regular butter for vegan butter if you’re not following a vegan diet. However, using vegan butter ensures the dish remains plant-based and suitable for vegan or vegetarian diets.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring that all the ingredients, including the spices and vegan marshmallows, are gluten-free. You can find gluten-free options available for these ingredients in most grocery stores or specialty food stores.
Can I make this recipe without the marshmallows?
Absolutely! While vegan marshmallows add a touch of sweetness and indulgence to the dish, they are optional. You can omit them or substitute with a vegan streusel topping, chopped nuts, or leave the dish as is.
How can I adjust the sweetness level of the dish?
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can increase the amount of brown sugar or add a drizzle of maple syrup or agave syrup to the butter mixture. On the other hand, if you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it entirely.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Simply assemble the sweet potatoes and pour the butter mixture over them, then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, remove the dish from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
