Southern candied sweet potatoes, with their irresistible blend of sweet, spiced, and buttery flavors, are a staple of holiday feasts and family gatherings. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating the perfect candied sweet potatoes, infused with the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, that are sure to become a favorite at your table.
Introduction
Southern candied sweet potatoes are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a rich, caramelized coating. This dish is not only a favorite during the holiday season but is also a beloved side dish that complements a variety of main courses.
Selecting and Preparing Sweet Potatoes
Choosing the Right Potatoes
- Size and Firmness: Opt for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm with no soft spots.
- Skin Appearance: The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes or sprouts.
Preparation Tips
- Washing and Peeling: Thoroughly wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
- Slicing: Cut the potatoes into even slices to ensure they cook uniformly.
Cooking Process
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes
- Butter
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Melt Butter: Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add Potatoes: Place the sweet potato slices in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Combine Spices and Sugar: In a separate bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes.
- Low Heat Cooking: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the potatoes simmer. This slow cooking process allows the potatoes to absorb the spices and sugar, becoming tender and flavorful.
- Final Touch: Stir in vanilla extract shortly before serving to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Candied sweet potatoes are versatile and can be served as:
- A Side Dish: Complement main courses like roasted turkey, ham, or chicken.
- A Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a sweet treat.
Nutritional Information
While candied sweet potatoes are indulgent, they also offer nutritional benefits such as high fiber content, vitamins, and minerals. Moderation is key when enjoying this sweet dish.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of making Southern candied sweet potatoes requires attention to detail, from selecting the right ingredients to following the cooking steps carefully. This dish not only offers a taste of Southern hospitality but also brings warmth and sweetness to any meal. By following the guidelines and tips provided, you can create a memorable and delicious dish that will be requested time and again at your gatherings.
Enjoy the sweet, spiced, and comforting flavors of Southern candied sweet potatoes and make your holiday meals or family dinners extra special.
Ingredients
- 6 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- salt to taste
Instructions
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into slices.
Melt the butter in a heavy skillet and add the sliced sweet potatoes.
Mix the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Cover the sweet potatoes with sugar mixture and stir. Cover skillet, reduce heat to low and cook for about 1 hour or until potatoes are “candied”. They should be tender but a little hard around the edges. Also the sauce will turn dark. You will need to stir occasionally during the cooking. Stir in the vanilla just before serving. Serve hot.