How to Cook Marshmallow Yams
Marshmallow yams, also known as candied yams, are a classic Thanksgiving side dish. They are typically made by baking or boiling yams and then topping them with a sweet marshmallow and brown sugar mixture. Here is a simple recipe to guide you in cooking delicious marshmallow yams:
Ingredients:
– 4 large yams
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and peel the yams. Cut them into 1-inch thick slices.
3. Place the yam slices in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let the yams cook for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender but still firm.
4. Drain the yams and transfer them to a baking dish.
5. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
6. Pour the butter mixture over the yams, making sure to coat them evenly.
7. Bake the yams in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
8. Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the mini marshmallows on top of the yams.
9. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the marshmallows are golden and slightly melted.
10. Remove from the oven and let the marshmallow yams cool for a few minutes before serving.
Do I Have to Boil Yams Before Baking?
Boiling yams before baking is not necessary, but it can help to soften the yams and reduce the baking time. Boiling the yams also helps to lock in their natural flavors and moisture. If you prefer a softer and creamier texture for your yams, boiling is recommended before baking. However, if you want a firmer texture or if you are short on time, you can skip the boiling step and bake the yams directly. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Are Canned Yams Cooked?
Yes, canned yams are typically already cooked and can be eaten straight out of the can. Canned yams are usually pre-cooked during the canning process to make them ready-to-eat. They are often packed in a syrup or light sugar solution to enhance their flavor. However, if you prefer a different cooking method or want to incorporate canned yams into a recipe, you can still cook them further as needed. Just be mindful of the cooking time to avoid overcooking the yams.
How Do You Cook and Eat Yams?
Yams can be cooked in various ways, including boiling, baking, roasting, or even frying. Here are a few common methods to cook and enjoy yams:
1. Boiling: Peel and cut the yams into desired sizes. Place them in a pot with enough water to cover them. Boil for about 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain the water and serve the boiled yams as a side dish or use them in recipes like mashed yams or yam salads.
2. Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and peel the yams, then cut them into chunks or slices. Toss the yams in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Arrange the yam pieces on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Roasting: Similar to baking, you can roast yams for a richer, nuttier flavor. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cut the yams into wedges or cubes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and spices like rosemary or thyme. Place the yams on a baking sheet and roast for about 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
4. Frying: Cut the yams into thin slices or strips. Heat oil in a frying pan or deep fryer. Fry the yam slices in batches until they are crispy and golden brown. Remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel. Sprinkle with salt or other seasonings before serving as a tasty snack or side dish.
When it comes to eating yams, they can be enjoyed in various ways. You can eat them plain, mashed, roasted, or as part of different recipes. Yams can be a delicious addition to stews, soups, casseroles, pies, or even used in desserts like yam pies or yam cakes. The versatility of yams allows you to explore different cooking techniques and flavors to suit your preferences.
Should you peel yams before cooking?
Yes, it is generally recommended to peel yams before cooking. The skin of yams can be tough and fibrous, making it difficult to chew and digest. Peeling the yams also helps to remove any dirt or debris that may be present on the skin. Additionally, peeling the yams can enhance the overall texture and taste of the dish. However, some recipes may call for leaving the skin on, especially if the yams are being roasted or grilled. In such cases, it is important to thoroughly wash and scrub the yams before cooking.
How long does it take to bake a sweet potato at 350?
To bake a sweet potato at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, it typically takes about 60-75 minutes, depending on the size of the sweet potato. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the oven and the desired level of doneness. It is recommended to pierce the sweet potato with a fork several times before baking to allow steam to escape and prevent it from bursting. Baking the sweet potato at a lower temperature for a longer time helps to evenly cook the potato and develop a soft and creamy texture.
How do you cut and boil yams?
To cut and boil yams, follow these steps:
1. Start by washing the yams thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut off both ends of the yams.
3. With the yam standing upright on one of the flat ends, carefully slice off the skin in downward motions, following the contour of the yam.
4. Once the yams are peeled, cut them into evenly sized pieces, about 1-2 inches thick.
5. Place the cut yam pieces in a large pot and cover them with water.
6. Add a pinch of salt to the water for seasoning.
7. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the yams simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
8. Drain the boiled yams and they are ready to be used in various recipes or enjoyed as a side dish.
Do you rinse canned yams?
Yes, it is recommended to rinse canned yams before using them. Rinsing canned yams helps to remove any excess syrup or liquid that may be present. This can help reduce the sweetness and also remove any added preservatives. Additionally, rinsing the yams can help to remove any metallic taste that may be associated with canned foods. Simply drain the canned yams in a colander and rinse them under cold running water before using them in your desired recipe.
Should I rinse canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, it is a good practice to rinse canned sweet potatoes before using them. Rinsing the canned sweet potatoes helps to remove any syrup or liquid from the can, which may contain added sugars or preservatives. This can help reduce the sweetness and also remove any unwanted flavors. By rinsing the sweet potatoes, you can have better control over the taste and also remove any excess sodium that may be present. Simply drain the canned sweet potatoes in a colander and rinse them under cold running water before incorporating them into your recipes.
Are candied yams actually yams?
No, candied yams are not actually yams. In many parts of the United States, the term “yam” is used to refer to sweet potatoes. However, true yams are a completely different vegetable and are not commonly found in American grocery stores. The confusion likely stems from the fact that sweet potatoes can have a similar texture and flavor to yams when cooked and candied.
Should I boil or bake my sweet potatoes?
Both boiling and baking are popular methods of cooking sweet potatoes, and the choice between the two largely depends on personal preference and the desired outcome.
Boiling sweet potatoes is a quicker method and results in a softer texture. This makes them suitable for mashing or pureeing. Boiling can also help retain more of the sweet potato’s natural flavor and nutrients.
On the other hand, baking sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and results in a slightly caramelized exterior. Baked sweet potatoes have a firmer texture and are often served whole or sliced. Baking also allows for a variety of toppings and seasonings to be added, enhancing the flavor.
Ultimately, the decision between boiling and baking sweet potatoes depends on how you plan to use them and the texture and flavor you prefer.
Should you pre-boil sweet potatoes?
Pre-boiling sweet potatoes can be beneficial in certain cooking techniques. If you plan to roast or grill sweet potatoes, pre-boiling them can help speed up the cooking process and ensure that the potatoes are evenly cooked.
By pre-boiling sweet potatoes, you partially cook them, making them tender and easier to handle. This allows for quicker cooking times when using high-heat methods, such as grilling or roasting. Pre-boiling can also help retain moisture and prevent the sweet potatoes from drying out during cooking.
However, it’s important to note that pre-boiling is not necessary for all recipes. If you plan to mash or use sweet potatoes in a casserole, you can skip the pre-boiling step and cook them directly in the final dish.
Why do we boil yam?
Boiling yams is a common cooking method that helps to soften the vegetable and make it easier to eat. Yam is a starchy root vegetable that can be quite tough and fibrous when raw. Boiling helps to break down the tough fibers, making the yam more tender and palatable.
Boiling yams also enhances their flavor and makes them more versatile for use in a variety of dishes. Once boiled, yams can be mashed, roasted, added to soups and stews, or used as a side dish.
Additionally, boiling yams can also help remove any bitterness or astringency that may be present in certain varieties of yams. This improves the overall taste and makes them more enjoyable to eat.
Do you have to boil potatoes for?
Boiling potatoes is not always necessary, as there are many different ways to cook potatoes depending on the desired outcome. However, boiling is a common method used to cook potatoes for various dishes.
Boiling potatoes is particularly useful when making mashed potatoes, as it allows for even cooking and ensures that the potatoes are soft and easy to mash. Boiling can also be used as a preliminary step before roasting, sautéing, or frying potatoes to partially cook them and reduce overall cooking time.
However, there are many other cooking methods for potatoes, such as baking, frying, and grilling, which can be used depending on the desired texture and flavor. Each cooking method offers its own unique results and can be chosen based on personal preference and the specific dish being prepared.
Summary:
In conclusion, candied yams are not actually yams but are made from sweet potatoes. The choice between boiling or baking sweet potatoes depends on personal preference and the desired outcome. Pre-boiling sweet potatoes can be beneficial for certain cooking techniques, but it is not necessary for all recipes. Boiling yams helps to soften them and enhance their flavor. Boiling potatoes is a common method used for mashed potatoes and can also be used as a preliminary step for other cooking methods. Ultimately, the cooking method chosen for yams and potatoes depends on the desired texture and flavor for the specific dish being prepared.
