Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Introduction
Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. One popular way to prepare sweet potatoes is by making candied sweet potatoes. This recipe takes the natural sweetness of the potatoes and enhances it with a delicious syrupy glaze. The result is a side dish that is both sweet and savory, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal. In this article, we will share with you a classic Southern candied sweet potatoes recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Steps by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Start by washing the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water. Peel the skin off and cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices. Place the sweet potato slices in a large pot of boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes until they are slightly tender. Drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Step 2: Making the Syrup
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar has dissolved, and the ingredients are well combined. Let the syrup simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Candying the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour the syrup mixture over the sweet potatoes, making sure they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Baking
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender and the syrup has thickened and caramelized.
Keto and Low Carb Variations
If you are following a keto or low-carb diet, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of candied sweet potatoes with a few modifications to the recipe. Here are some keto and low carb variations:
– Replace the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
– Use a sugar-free maple syrup substitute instead of traditional maple syrup.
– Instead of butter, use coconut oil or ghee.
– Reduce the amount of sweetener used in the syrup to your desired taste.
Tips
– To enhance the flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cloves to the syrup mixture.
– For a crunchy texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the sweet potatoes before baking.
– If the syrup is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or orange juice.
– Leftover candied sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Candied sweet potatoes are a classic Southern dish that brings a touch of sweetness to any meal. The combination of the tender sweet potatoes and the sticky syrup creates a mouthwatering side dish that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you enjoy them as a Thanksgiving side or a Sunday dinner treat, this recipe is a must-try for sweet potato lovers.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for this recipe. Simply drain and rinse the canned sweet potatoes before using them.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the candied sweet potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze candied sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze candied sweet potatoes. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then warm them in the oven.
Now that you have the recipe for Southern candied sweet potatoes, it’s time to gather the ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy this delicious side dish that will surely become a favorite in your family!
