Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes:

The ingredients required for this Southern-style candied sweet potatoes recipe are as follows:

You will need 2 large sweet potatoes, which should be peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds.

One cup of light brown sugar is necessary to achieve the characteristic sweetness of this dish. It’s crucial to use a high-quality dark brown sugar that has not been sifted or processed further to get the best results.

A quarter cup of all-purpose flour will help in thickening the mixture and preventing it from becoming too runny or syrupy.

Two teaspoons of salt enhance the flavor, but be careful not to overdo it, as excessive salt can overpower the other ingredients.

One teaspoon of ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the dish. Choose a high-quality, freshly ground cinnamon for optimal results.

A quarter cup of unsalted butter is melted to create the rich sauce that coats the sweet potatoes. This amount may be adjusted according to personal preference for creaminess or richness.

Finally, one cup of heavy cream is used to add moisture and a touch of sweetness to the dish. The choice between whole milk, half-and-half, or even coconut cream will depend on your dietary requirements or preferences.

For added flavor and texture, you can choose from various mix-ins such as chopped pecans, marshmallows, or dried cranberries. These ingredients add a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

* 2 large sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a staple ingredient in many Southern recipes, and for good reason. They’re sweet, creamy, and pair perfectly with spices and sugar to create a delicious side dish or dessert.

In the context of our Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe, we’ll be using 2 large sweet potatoes as the main ingredient. These should be high in moisture and have a smooth, creamy texture when cooked.

To choose the right sweet potatoes, look for ones that are heavy for their size and have no signs of soft spots or bruises. They should also have a sweet, earthy aroma to them. Avoid using any sweet potatoes that are green around the stem or have visible mold on the surface.

When selecting your 2 large sweet potatoes, make sure they’re roughly the same size so that they cook evenly. You can also use smaller or larger sweet potatoes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Sweet Potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. In this recipe, we’ll be using them as the base for our candied sweet potatoes, which will add natural sweetness and creamy texture to your dish.

Remember, when cooking with sweet potatoes, it’s essential to cook them until they’re tender but still firm to the touch. This ensures that they retain their flavor and texture, rather than becoming mushy or overcooked.

Now that you have your 2 large sweet potatoes selected, let’s move on to preparing them for our Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe!

* 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

The ingredients for this delicious Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe are as follows:

For the sweet potatoes:

• Sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds

For the candied syrup:

• Granulated sugar, 1 cup
• Pure maple syrup, 1/2 cup
• Corn syrup, 2 tablespoons
• Unsalted butter, softened (see below for details)
• Heavy cream, 2 tablespoons
• Powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon
• Salt, a pinch
• Ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon (optional)
• Ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

About the unsalted butter:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: This is a key ingredient in making the candied syrup. To soften the butter, you can either leave it at room temperature for about an hour or microwave it in short intervals (5-10 seconds) until soft and pliable.

Other ingredients:

• Marshmallows, 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
• Pecan halves or chopped pecans, for garnish (optional)

* 1/2 cup brown sugar

Brown sugar is a crucial ingredient in this Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe, and understanding its role will help to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.

In this context, 1/2 cup brown sugar is used as a sweetener, adding a rich caramel-like flavor to the candied sweet potatoes. Brown sugar contains both sucrose and molasses, which are broken down during the cooking process, producing a deep, velvety glaze.

The use of brown sugar instead of white sugar provides a distinct characteristic that complements the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. This differentiation in taste is particularly suited for traditional Southern cuisine, where rich, complex flavors often take center stage.

In terms of its physical properties, brown sugar has a coarser texture than white sugar due to the presence of molasses, which gives it a slightly grainy appearance. When dissolved, however, both sugars become liquid and mix seamlessly with other ingredients in the recipe.

It’s essential to note that using 1/2 cup of brown sugar is a relatively standard amount for this specific Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe. Adjusting the quantity may alter the sweetness level and overall flavor profile of the dish, so it is crucial to maintain consistency with the original measurement in order to achieve the desired result.

Brown sugar’s role in balancing flavors in sweet potato recipes extends beyond this particular recipe as well. Its use enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetable without overpowering other ingredients. This balance ensures that every bite transports you back to the Southern United States, where rich culinary traditions have a special place at the table.

* 1/2 teaspoon salt

The Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe is a classic dish that is often served as a side at family gatherings and holiday meals in the Southern United States.

To make this delicious recipe, you will need several key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in bringing out the sweet and savory flavors of the sweet potatoes.

The first ingredient we will discuss is salt. In many recipes, salt is used to season food and enhance its flavor, but when it comes to candying sweet potatoes, the amount of salt required is quite small – just 1/2 teaspoon is enough to get the job done!

Salt serves a few purposes in this recipe. Firstly, it helps to balance out the sweetness of the sugar and brown sugar used in the syrup. This is particularly important when using sweet potatoes as they can be quite naturally sweet.

Additionally, salt helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients in the recipe, such as the butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It adds depth and complexity to the dish without overpowering the sweetness of the sugar and sweet potatoes.

The key here is to use a small amount of salt – 1/2 teaspoon will do! Too much salt can make the dish taste bitter or over-salted, so it’s essential to be careful when measuring this ingredient.

Now that we have discussed the role of salt in the recipe, let’s talk about the other ingredients you’ll need. These include brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice – each playing a crucial part in creating the sweet and savory flavors of this beloved Southern dish.

In our next section, we will explore the role of these other ingredients in more detail, highlighting their unique properties and how they contribute to the overall flavor profile of the recipe.

* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The ingredient list for the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe includes a variety of sweet and savory elements that come together to create a deliciously rich and comforting dish.

One of the key ingredients in this recipe is ground cinnamon, which adds warmth and depth to the sweet potatoes. In terms of measurement, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon is required for this recipe.

Cinnamon is a spice made from the inner bark of the Cinnamomum verum tree, commonly known as the Ceylon cinnamon tree. It is native to Sri Lanka and other parts of Southeast Asia, and has been used in cooking for thousands of years.

Ground cinnamon is available at most supermarkets and grocery stores, usually in the spice aisle. It can also be found online or at specialty food stores. When selecting a ground cinnamon, look for one that is fresh and fragrant, as this will ensure the best flavor in your recipe.

In the context of sweet potatoes, cinnamon helps to balance out their natural sweetness with a warm and spicy undertone. This pairs perfectly with other ingredients like brown sugar, butter, and nutmeg, which all work together to create a rich and indulgent flavor profile.

*honey to taste

In the context of the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe, **honey** to taste refers to a sweetener used to balance out the flavors in the dish.

The amount of honey needed can vary depending on personal preferences and the sweetness level desired. Here are some factors to consider when using honey:

• Honey’s sweetness profile: Honey has a distinct sweet flavor that is both floral and rich. Using honey to taste allows you to control the amount of sweetness in your dish.
• Taste preferences: Some people may prefer their candied sweet potatoes with a stronger honey flavor, while others may prefer a subtle hint of sweetness.

When using honey, it’s essential to consider the following tips:

• Pour in small increments: Add a small amount of honey at a time, stirring well after each addition. This allows you to control the sweetness level and avoid overpowering the dish.
• Taste as you go: Regularly taste the sweet potatoes during the cooking process to ensure they reach your desired level of sweetness.

The type of honey used can also impact the flavor profile of your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes. Different types of honey offer distinct flavor characteristics, such as:

• Clover honey: Mild and floral, clover honey is a popular choice for baking.
• Buckwheat honey: Stronger and darker in color, buckwheat honey has a distinct nutty flavor.

Ultimately, the key to using honey to taste effectively lies in experimenting with different amounts and types of honey until you find the perfect balance for your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe.

Instructions

Cooking the Sweet Potatoes:

For a delicious Southern-style candied sweet potatoes dish, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Cooking Sweet Potatoes

To begin making your Southern candied sweet potatoes, you will need to cook the sweet potatoes first.

Step 1: Peel and Chop Sweet Potatoes

First, wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly in cold water. After that, dry them with a clean towel or paper towels.

Next, peel the skin off the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler. You should have four to six peeled sweet potatoes depending on their size.

Now, chop each sweet potato into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl of cold water. Make sure the sweet potato cubes are fully submerged under the water.

Step 2: Boil Sweet Potatoes

In a large saucepan or pot with a heavy bottom, bring enough salted water to cover the chopped sweet potatoes to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.

Once boiling, carefully pour the sweet potato cubes into the hot water and reduce the heat to medium-low. Make sure the sweet potatoes are fully submerged under the water at all times.

Step 3: Drain and Mash Sweet Potatoes

After about 15-20 minutes of cooking, use a fork or a slotted spoon to check if the sweet potatoes are tender. When they’re easily pierced with a fork, drain them in a colander under cold running water.

Candying Sweet Potatoes

Now that your sweet potatoes are cooked and drained, it’s time to make the candied sugar syrup and caramelize it on top of the sweet potatoes for a delicious Southern-style dish:

Ingredients for Candying:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step 1: Make the Candied Sugar Syrup

In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, white granulated sugar, and light corn syrup. Place it over medium heat until the sugars dissolve.

Add in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract to the saucepan. Stir well to ensure both ingredients are fully incorporated into the sugar mixture.

Step 2: Caramelize Sugar Syrup

Bring the sugar mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until you get a rich amber color and a slightly caramelized smell.

Step 3: Pour Candied Sugar Over Sweet Potatoes

Once your sweet potatoes are drained and mashed, pour the candied sugar syrup over them. Be careful as it will be very hot at this stage.

Serving Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Your Southern-style candied sweet potatoes dish is now ready to be served! Garnish with marshmallows or chopped nuts for an extra delicious touch. Serve warm, preferably on a cold winter day as part of your holiday meal.

* Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

In order to successfully prepare the Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes, it’s crucial to begin by preheating the oven to a precise temperature. Specifically, the oven should be set to 400°F (200°C). This initial step sets the stage for the rest of the recipe, as the high heat will facilitate the caramelization and tenderization of the sweet potatoes.

The process of preheating the oven involves turning it on and allowing it to reach the desired temperature. This can take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the type and age of the oven. It’s essential to wait for the oven to reach the exact temperature specified in the recipe, as this will ensure that the sweet potatoes cook evenly and at the correct rate.

Preheating the oven also helps to create a hot, even cooking environment, which is ideal for the subsequent steps of cooking the sweet potatoes. By preheating the oven beforehand, you’ll be able to achieve a perfectly cooked dish with a beautiful balance of textures and flavors.

In addition, preheating the oven before cooking is an essential safety measure. It helps prevent foodborne illness by ensuring that bacteria are killed during the cooking process. Furthermore, it also ensures that the sweet potatoes cook consistently throughout, reducing the risk of undercooked or overcooked sections.

* Peel and slice sweet potatoes into 1inch thick rounds.

To begin preparing this delectable side dish, it’s essential to select a few high-quality ingredients. For this Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe, you’ll need:

• Sweet potatoes: Choose several large, firm sweet potatoes that are heavy for their size.
• Unsalted butter: Have a generous amount of unsalted butter on hand, as it will add richness and flavor to the dish.
• Brown sugar: You’ll need a good amount of brown sugar to create the caramelized, candied coating for your sweet potatoes.
• Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: These warm spices will add depth and warmth to your dish.
• Pecans or walnuts: Optional, but highly recommended, are chopped nuts that will add crunch and texture to each bite.
• Cream or milk: You’ll need a splash of cream or milk to create the creamy sauce that coats your sweet potatoes.
• Salt: A pinch of salt is essential for balancing out the sweetness in this dish.

Now, let’s move on to preparing our sweet potato rounds. Peel and slice several large sweet potatoes into 1-inch thick rounds.

To create uniform rounds, use a mandoline or sharp knife to ensure that each slice is even in thickness.

Once you have your sliced sweet potatoes, set them aside for a few minutes before proceeding with the recipe.

* Place sweet potato slices in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

The importance of following detailed instructions when preparing a dish, like Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes, cannot be overstated. One crucial step in this process is to remove excess starch from the sweet potato slices before cooking them. This is where the instruction comes into play: “Place sweet potato slices in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.”

The reasoning behind soaking sweet potato slices in cold water is rooted in the fact that these root vegetables have a high water content and natural starches. When cooked, these starches can make the sweet potatoes sticky or even glue-like in texture. By removing some of this excess starch, you are able to achieve a crisper exterior and a fluffier interior when cooking the sweet potatoes. This is especially important for candied sweet potatoes, as they need to hold their shape well to maintain their presentation.

The process of soaking sweet potato slices in cold water also helps to reduce the likelihood of them becoming discolored or developing an unpleasant texture. When vegetables like sweet potatoes are cut and exposed to air, enzymes within the cells start to break down, leading to spoilage and discoloration. Soaking the sliced sweet potatoes in cold water slows down this process, allowing you to prepare them ahead of time without compromising their quality.

It’s also worth noting that using cold water for soaking is more effective than using warm or hot water. Cold water helps to prevent any further breakdown of the vegetable cells, keeping the natural texture and flavor intact. Warm or hot water can accelerate this process, leading to a less desirable outcome.

In summary, placing sweet potato slices in a large bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes is an essential step in removing excess starch and preparing them for cooking. By following these instructions, you will be able to achieve the best results possible when making Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes.

Final Touches

Candying the Sweet Potatoes:

The final touches on this Southern-style candied sweet potatoes recipe are crucial to achieving that perfect balance of sweetness and texture. After roasting the sweet potatoes, it’s time to give them a luxurious makeover with a layer of sticky, sugary goodness.

Begin by preparing the candying mixture: combine 1/4 cup light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugars have dissolved.

Next, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and develops a rich, syrupy consistency. This is where the magic happens – you want the sugar to caramelize and turn into that deep golden brown color.

Now, it’s time to give the sweet potatoes their candied makeover: brush them evenly with the warm sugar mixture, making sure each potato slice or chunk gets a good coating.

To take this recipe to the next level, consider adding some chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) or dried cranberries to the candying mixture for added texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top for that touch of sophistication.

Finish off by arranging the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a serving platter, allowing them to cool slightly before garnishing with additional chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce (if desired). The resulting Southern-style candied sweet potatoes are sure to become a crowd-pleaser – rich, indulgent, and simply irresistible!

* Drain sweet potato slices from water and pat dry with paper towels.

After boiling or steaming your sweet potatoes until they are tender, it’s time to give them the final touches that will elevate them from a simple side dish to a decadent dessert.

The first step in adding those final touches is to remove the sweet potato slices from their cooking water and drain off any excess moisture. It’s essential to get rid of as much water as possible to prevent the sweet potatoes from becoming soggy or developing an unpleasant texture when coated with the candied sugar mixture later on.

Next, use paper towels to gently pat dry each line of sweet potato slices. This step may seem trivial, but it makes a significant difference in achieving that perfect crunch and caramelized exterior. By removing excess moisture, you’ll create a better surface for the sugar to cling to, resulting in an even more indulgent experience.

Remember, when working with sweet potatoes, patience is key. Take your time, and don’t rush through these final steps – the end result will be well worth the extra effort.

* Melt butter and mix with brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and honey in a large skillet over medium heat.

The final touches to this Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe are what will elevate it from a simple side dish to a show-stopping masterpiece. And that’s precisely where we’ll focus our attention in this section.

As the mixture of butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and honey simmers together over medium heat, it’s essential to stir occasionally, ensuring everything melds harmoniously. The butter should melt completely, infusing the mixture with an aromatic depth that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and sweet potatoes.

The addition of cinnamon adds a warm, comforting essence reminiscent of classic Southern baked goods. It’s a key element in balancing out the sugars and creating a well-rounded flavor profile. By combining these ingredients thoughtfully, you’ll find your kitchen filled with an irresistible scent that will make everyone anticipate the finish line – or rather, the finish cooking time!

Now, let’s talk about salt – often overlooked but crucial for enhancing flavors in any dish. It serves as a bridge between sweet and savory notes while maintaining a delicate balance between them all. Don’t be shy with it; just remember that less can sometimes be more.

Honey brings natural sweetness to the table without overpowering other components like refined sugars might do if used in excess. Use pure honey for its distinct flavor profile; otherwise, opt for honey blends which have a lighter taste yet still pack plenty punch when combined with these spices!

Remember how important it is not only to stir occasionally but also observe temperature closely? Medium heat allows butter to melt at an even rate while cooking time remains relatively low due in part because we aren’t relying solely on sugar content alone here; spices take center stage!

So there you have it – Final Touches galore! Combine these final steps according to recipe guidelines, taking extra care when handling ingredients so everyone gets equally distributed throughout each piece of sweet potato. Happy cooking!

* Add sweet potato slices to skillet and cook for 57 minutes on each side or until they are caramelized and tender.

The final touches to this Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes recipe involve adding sweet potato slices to a skillet and cooking them for an extended period on both sides until they are perfectly caramelized and tender.

To achieve the desired outcome, it’s essential to cook the sweet potatoes in a single layer, allowing each slice to have adequate space to caramelize evenly. A large skillet or a cast-iron pan is ideal for this task, as it provides even heat distribution and allows for easy handling of the sweet potatoes during cooking.

The first step is to add the sliced sweet potatoes to the preheated skillet, making sure they are spread out in a single layer. If necessary, use multiple skillets or cook the sweet potatoes in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of caramelization.

Now, cook the sweet potatoes for 57 minutes on each side, or until they are tender and caramelized. It’s crucial to not stir or flip the sweet potatoes excessively during cooking, as this will disrupt the formation of the desired glaze.

To ensure the sweet potatoes develop a beautiful, deep brown color, it’s essential to maintain a consistent heat level throughout the cooking process. If using an electric stovetop, you can achieve this by adjusting the heat dial accordingly; if using a gas stovetop, simply monitor the flame height and adjust as needed.

During the last 10 minutes of cooking, you may notice that some sweet potatoes are browning faster than others. To prevent burning, gently rotate them to ensure even browning.

Once the sweet potatoes have completed their 57-minute cook time on each side, remove the skillet from heat and carefully transfer the caramelized sweet potatoes to a serving dish or individual plates.

Before serving, drizzle the warm sweet potatoes with the prepared candied syrup (see separate recipe) and garnish with chopped fresh herbs or edible flowers, if desired. This will add an extra touch of elegance and fragrance to your Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes.