Pine Apples

Candied yams or candied sweet potatoes, what do you call them? There's always this growing debate on what to call them. I believe it mostly depends on what part of the country you're from, the north or the south. But whatever you choose call them one area that's never debated, it's one of the favorite holiday side dishes of all time. Wouldn't you agree?

Candied yam recipes takes a back seat only to stuffing when it comes to a festive holiday meal. But what makes them a fan favorite year after year in most homes of America and around the world. Is it the warm comforting texture? The sweet festive tastes? Or perhaps it's the mood it sets that reminds us of our childhood holiday memories. It's probably a combination of all these qualities and more. Whatever moods, memories or thoughts candied yams bring to us, the main one hands-down, they say, "it's the holidays."

Pine Apples

History of Candied Sweet Potatoes

Candied sweet potatoes has a history as an important part of the diet of Americans almost from day one. Although the overall consumption of the sweet potato has decreased since the 20th century, it continues to remain high during the holiday season and for the remaining winter months. They're a year round staple for most African American soul food meals along with other southern dishes. It's been a favorite dish because of it's low food cost and staying power or feeling of fullness it gives those consume it, making it kind to a families food budget.

Most Popular Season

Candied yams is most popular in the cool fall and cold winter months, because of it's warm, comfort food feeling it gives to those who consume it. The recipes for candied yams continue as one of the most requested recipes on recipes websites, hot lines and cookbooks. This continues to verify the dishes ongoing popularity generation after generation. Although candied yams continues as a staple side dish for millions of people, the ways of preparing it continues to expand. Whether you boil or steam your potatoes before peeling. Boil with the skin on or off, or whether you bake in an oven or on top of the stove, there's a method just for you.

Variety of Ways To Prepare Candied Yams

But aside from the many ways to cook it, many people are adding their own creativity to the dish. Besides the sweet potato many recipes add pineapple for an added hint of sweetness and island flavor. Others add cashews or other fall nuts to add a crunchy texture to this popular dish. Still other choose to add raisins as a substitute for white sugar as a healthy alternative.

This demonstrates the flexibility and variety you can add to this traditional holiday dish if you feel the inspiration. However, the choice of most people comes down to the traditional and easy candied yams this includes sweet potatoes, butter, nutmeg, cinnamon, brown sugar, white sugar, orange juice, vanilla extract.

Know one can argue with that recipe. Why? Because it continues to stand the test of time generation after generation. Whatever style of candied yams recipes you choose whether it's traditional, modern, eclectic or even soul food candied yams, make sure you enjoy them.

Candied Yams Update - Why Candied Yams Remain Favorite Holiday Dish

To get more tips on preparing candied yams and see the top southern style recipes for this month go to Free Soul Food Recipes

Thanks To : lodge logic pre seasoned 15 inch cast iron skillet