Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a classic dish that’s perfect for holiday dinners or as a comforting side any time of the year. These sweet potatoes are cooked in a buttery, sugary syrup until they’re tender and caramelized. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 6 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and Slice:
- Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Rinse and Drain:
- Rinse the sweet potatoes in cold water and drain them well.
Step 2: Prepare the Syrup
- Melt the Butter:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat.
- Add Sugar and Spices:
- Add 2 cups of sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the melted butter. Stir well to combine.
- Add Vanilla:
- Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
- Add Sweet Potatoes:
- Carefully add the sliced sweet potatoes to the pot, stirring gently to coat them with the syrup.
- Cook:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and cook the sweet potatoes, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the syrup has thickened.
- Check for Doneness:
- Check the sweet potatoes with a fork; they should be tender but not falling apart.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate and Serve:
- Transfer the candied sweet potatoes to a serving dish, spooning the syrup over the top. Serve warm.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. If using salted butter, you may want to reduce the added salt.
- Stirring: Stir gently to avoid breaking the sweet potato slices.
- Syrup Consistency: If the syrup is too thick, add a little water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, cook uncovered for the last few minutes to thicken it.
Variations
Maple Candied Sweet Potatoes
- Replace half of the sugar with pure maple syrup for a rich, maple-flavored variation.
Pecan Candied Sweet Potatoes
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added crunch and flavor.
Orange-Glazed Sweet Potatoes
- Add the zest and juice of one orange to the syrup for a bright citrus twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the candied sweet potatoes a day in advance. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I freeze candied sweet potatoes? A: While you can freeze them, the texture may change upon reheating. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.
Q: What can I serve with candied sweet potatoes? A: These sweet potatoes pair well with roasted meats, especially ham and turkey, and other holiday sides like stuffing and green beans.
Q: Can I reduce the amount of sugar? A: Yes, you can reduce the sugar to 1 1/2 cups if you prefer a less sweet version.
Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender texture and rich, sweet flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these sweet potatoes are easy to make and always delightful. Enjoy making and sharing this Southern favorite with your family and friends!
