The aroma of sweet and spicy Honey Ginger Candied Yams wafts through the air, instantly transforming my kitchen into a cozy holiday haven. With a delightful blend of fresh ginger and honey, this twist on a classic side dish brings a savory-sweet balance that elevates any festive gathering. I love how these yams are quick to prepare and are a stunning centerpiece on the table, making them a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, they can be easily customized to your taste, whether you’re a fan of crunchy pecans or prefer a nut-free option. Curious about how to create this irresistible holiday side dish? Let’s dive in!
Why are Honey Ginger Candied Yams a Must-Try?
Savory-Sweet Balance: This recipe harmoniously blends the richness of honey with the zing of fresh ginger, creating a mouthwatering flavor profile.
Quick Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you’ll have this stunning side dish ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for holiday feasts, these yams will impress your family and friends at any gathering. Pair them effortlessly with a main course like glazed ham or herb-crusted pork tenderloin for a delicious spread.
Customizable Ingredients: Love nuts? Add pecans for an extra crunch! Prefer it nut-free? Omit them without sacrificing flavor.
Beautiful Presentation: The golden-brown caramelization and vibrant colors make this dish visually stunning, catching the eye of your guests. Check out my delicious Honey Butter Tteokbokki for another festive favorite!
Honey Ginger Candied Yams Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delightful twist on a classic dish!
For the Yams
- Yams or Sweet Potatoes – These provide the base of your dish, delivering natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
- Olive Oil – This adds richness and ensures the yams achieve those perfectly crispy edges.
- Salt – Just a pinch can elevate flavors, enhancing the overall taste of your Honey Ginger Candied Yams.
- Black Pepper – A dash brings in a subtle warmth, balancing the sweetness of the dish.
For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
- Cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic sweetness that perfectly complements the yams.
- Honey – This natural sweetener is key for a glossy coating, giving the yams their signature shine when caramelized.
- Brown Sugar – Deepens the sweetness while adding complexity to the flavor profile.
- Ground Ginger – The star of the show, giving these candied yams the essential kick that ties everything together.
Optional Additions
- Pecans – Add these for delightful crunch and richness; feel free to substitute or omit them to keep it nut-free!
- Flaky Finishing Salt – A sprinkle right before serving enhances the dynamic flavors in this dish.
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to creating these delicious Honey Ginger Candied Yams that everyone will rave about!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey Ginger Candied Yams
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect caramelization on your yams. As the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and equipment, ensuring you have a baking sheet ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Yams
Peel and slice the yams or sweet potatoes into half-inch thick discs for even cooking. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced yams with olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated, then spread them in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet for optimal roasting.
Step 3: Initial Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the yams for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should start to soften but remain slightly firm. This initial bake will allow the edges to become crispier, setting the stage for the delicious Honey Ginger Candied Yams to come.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
While the yams are baking, prepare the sweet and spicy glaze. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground ginger. Place it over low heat, stirring continuously for about 2 minutes until the ingredients are well mixed and heated through, creating a delightful glaze to brush on the yams.
Step 5: Glaze the Yams
Once the yams are slightly tender, carefully remove them from the oven. Using a pastry brush, generously coat both sides of each yam slice with the honey ginger glaze. Make sure they are well covered, as this will add a wonderful sweetness and depth to your Honey Ginger Candied Yams.
Step 6: Add Pecans
If you’re using pecans for added crunch, sprinkle them over the glazed yams now. The warm yams will help the pecans adhere and toast slightly during the final bake, elevating the flavors in this stunning holiday dish.
Step 7: Final Bake
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the yams; they should turn golden brown and become beautifully caramelized at the edges. This step brings the sweet and spicy flavors of your Honey Ginger Candied Yams to life.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once caramelized, transfer the Honey Ginger Candied Yams to a serving platter. For an extra burst of flavor, finish with a light sprinkle of flaky finishing salt just before serving. These vibrant, aromatic yams are now ready to be the star of your festive feast!
Storage Tips for Honey Ginger Candied Yams
Fridge: Store your leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They can be enjoyed either cold or warmed up.
Freezer: You can freeze these delightful yams for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper in freezer-safe containers to preserve their texture.
Reheating: To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes, or microwave for a quick option. If they seem dry, add a drizzle of honey to restore moisture.
Honey Ginger Candied Yams Variations
Feel free to adjust your Honey Ginger Candied Yams to match your family’s taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Nut-Free: Omit pecans for an equally delicious version that’s safe for those with nut allergies.
Instead, amp up the glaze with extra spices for depth! -
Maple Twist: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a richer, darker sweetness.
The harmonizing flavors will remind you of cozy mornings, making them truly comfort food! -
Ginger-Lover’s Delight: Increase the ground ginger quantity for a bolder spice kick.
This adaptation adds warmth and zest, perfect for those who adore ginger’s robust flavor. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a fiery twist.
This burst of heat contrasts beautifully with the sweetness and creates a delightful surprise! -
Herbaceous Touch: Stir in some fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an earthy note.
This variation introduces a unique depth, making the dish feel rustic yet elevated! -
Sweet Potato Variation: Swap yams for orange sweet potatoes for a slightly different sweetness.
This change not only alters the flavor but also brings a lovely hue to your table! -
Fruit Infusion: Include diced apples or pears with the yams for added moisture and natural sweetness.
The fruity element complements the yams beautifully, bringing a fresh twist to the dish! -
Savory Addition: Mix in some cooked bacon bits for a smoky, savory contrast to the sweetness.
This combination creates a deliciously unexpected flair, perfect for adventurous eaters!
Whichever variation you choose, these Honey Ginger Candied Yams are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to check out my delicious Gingerbread Brownies Cozy for another sweet treat that might be perfect for your holiday table!
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Ginger Candied Yams are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful side dish with minimal last-minute effort! You can peel and slice the yams up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them submerged in cold water to prevent browning. Additionally, prepare the sweet and spicy glaze and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before using. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the yams with olive oil, salt, and pepper, bake them as directed, then brush on the glaze and finish baking. This preparation not only saves time but ensures that your yams remain just as delicious and flavorful when it’s time to feast!
What to Serve with Honey Ginger Candied Yams?
These vibrant, spicy-sweet yams are the perfect complement to a heartwarming holiday meal, inviting smiles and satisfaction at every gathering.
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Roasted Turkey: The savory flavor of roasted turkey beautifully contrasts the sweet caramelized yams, creating a balanced plate that pleases everyone.
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Glazed Ham: The sweetness of ham pairs wonderfully with the ginger notes, enhancing the festive spirit of your feast and creating a memorable meal.
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Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin: The savory herbs in the pork add depth to the dish’s sweetness, ensuring every bite is a culinary delight. These two together create a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Green Bean Almondine: The crispness of green beans provides a fresh texture that brightens up your plate, while toasted almonds add a delightful crunch, balancing the rich yams.
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Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts and the smokiness of bacon create a savory counterpoint to the sweet and spicy yams, making for an exciting combination.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce not only adds a pop of color but also an essential tartness that enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite more intriguing.
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Apple Cider Sangria: Complete your meal with a refreshing apple cider sangria, which offers a fruity and spiced kick, perfectly in tune with the essence of the holiday season.
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Pumpkin Pie: To conclude the feast, a slice of pumpkin pie is a fabulous choice. The warm spices in the pie echo the flavors of your yams, making it a delightful ending to your meal.
Expert Tips for Honey Ginger Candied Yams
• Slice Thickness Matters: Aim for ½-inch thick slices to ensure even cooking and prevent any mushy textures.
• Avoid Steaming: Don’t overcrowd your baking pan; give each yam slice some space to breathe for that perfect caramelization.
• Glaze Timing: Brush on the honey glaze only when the yams are almost fully cooked to prevent the sugars from burning.
• Pecan Perfection: If using pecans, toast them halfway through for optimal crunch. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately after adding flaky salt for the best flavor; these Honey Ginger Candied Yams shine when fresh!
Honey Ginger Candied Yams Recipe FAQs
What type of yams or sweet potatoes should I use?
For the best results, I recommend using firm yams or sweet potatoes that are similar in size. This ensures even cooking and perfect texture throughout. Look for those with smooth skins and free of dark spots. Freshness is key!
How should I store leftover Honey Ginger Candied Yams?
Store any leftover yams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can enjoy them cold for a snack, or gently warm them in the oven or microwave. To preserve their delicious flavor, be sure to keep them sealed.
Can I freeze Honey Ginger Candied Yams?
Absolutely! You can freeze these yams for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my candied yams burn before they caramelize?
To avoid burning, ensure you brush on the honey glaze only after the yams are nearly done cooking. This allows them to caramelize beautifully without the sugars burning. If you notice them darkening too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil while they finish baking.
Are Honey Ginger Candied Yams suitable for those with nut allergies?
Definitely! You can easily omit the pecans in this recipe if you’re accommodating for nut allergies. The glaze and yams already bring a delightful flavor that stands on its own. If you want some texture, consider adding toasted pumpkin seeds as an alternative.
How can I adjust the sweetness or spiciness if I prefer a milder flavor?
If you’d like to tone down the sweetness, try reducing the amount of honey or brown sugar in the glaze. For spice, simply use less ground ginger, or omit it altogether if you’re looking for a milder taste. The beauty of this recipe is the customizable balance of flavors to suit your palate!
Savory-Sweet Honey Ginger Candied Yams for Festive Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) for optimal caramelization.
- Peel and slice the yams or sweet potatoes into half-inch thick discs. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, then spread them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the yams for 15 minutes, ensuring they are slightly firm to the touch.
- Prepare the sweet and spicy glaze by mixing honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground ginger in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until well combined.
- Coat the baked yams with the honey ginger glaze using a pastry brush.
- If using, sprinkle pecans over the glazed yams.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Transfer the yams to a serving platter and sprinkle with flaky salt before serving.
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