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Candied Yams: A Holiday Treat with a Healthy Twist
Candied Yams: A Holiday Treat with a Healthy Twist
Candied yams are a staple at many holiday tables, with their sweet, buttery flavors and gooey marshmallow topping making them a beloved side dish. While they’re popular year-round, candied yams truly shine during Thanksgiving, with Christmas and Easter following close behind. Whether you’re hosting a festive feast or simply craving a comforting treat, candied yams are a simple and delicious addition to your menu.
The Classic Candied Yam Recipe
This classic recipe calls for just four ingredients: canned sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and miniature marshmallows. With only 15 minutes of prep time and about 25 minutes of baking, it’s a quick and easy dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Steps to Make Candied Yams:
1. Drain the canned yams to prevent excess liquid from making the dish runny. Arrange them in a baking dish.
2. Dice cold butter into small pieces and distribute evenly over the yams.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top, crushing any lumps for even distribution.
4. Top with mini marshmallows, ensuring full coverage for a golden, toasted finish.
5. Bake at 375°F until the marshmallows are melted and golden, about 25 minutes.
Fresh Sweet Potatoes Option:
Prefer fresh sweet potatoes? Swap them for canned yams by peeling, cutting, and pre-cooking three to four medium sweet potatoes until tender but not mushy. This substitution adds a touch of homemade flair while retaining the dish’s signature flavors.
Are Yams and Sweet Potatoes the Same?
Despite the common confusion, yams and sweet potatoes are not the same. Yams are dry and starchy, often used in African or Caribbean cooking, whereas the “yams” we see in North American stores are usually sweet potatoes. For this recipe, canned “yams” are typically sweet potatoes in syrup.
Give Your Candied Yams a Nutritional Boost
At the Muscle and Joint Clinic, we encourage indulging mindfully during the holidays. Adding a few health-conscious twists to your candied yams can make them just as enjoyable while offering more nutritional value. For example, try mixing in cinnamon, nutmeg, or chopped walnuts for added flavor and nutrients. Reducing the marshmallow topping or using a plant-based sweetener can also make the dish lighter.
Looking for more ways to enjoy festive foods while maintaining a balanced diet? Our registered dietitians are here to help! Book a free consultation to learn how you can celebrate the holidays with delicious, nutritious dishes that support your health goals. Contact us today to make your holidays both joyful and healthy!