Description

Southern candied sweet potatoes are more than just a dish—they’re a celebration of southern hospitality and comfort food at its finest. This classic side dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warm, rich flavors of brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. Often served during the holidays or at Sunday dinners, candied sweet potatoes bring a touch of sweetness to the table, perfectly complementing savory dishes like roasted meats or greens. With roots deeply embedded in Southern culinary traditions, this recipe has been passed down through generations, preserving its simple yet indulgent nature. Let’s dive into how you can bring this Southern classic to your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup of water
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Preparation Method

1. Peel and slice sweet potatoes into 1/2 inch thick rounds or wedges.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until dissolved and bubbling.
4. Place sweet potato slices in the syrup, cover, and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once tender and syrup has thickened, remove from heat and optionally stir in vanilla extract.
6. Serve in a dish, spooning syrup over the sweet potatoes.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra touch of indulgence, try adding a handful of chopped pecans to the syrup in the last 10 minutes of cooking. The nuts will toast slightly in the syrup, adding a deliciously crunchy contrast to the soft, tender sweet potatoes. The combination of buttery pecans with the rich, sweet glaze elevates the dish to a new level of Southern decadence.

Alternatively, you can sprinkle mini marshmallows over the sweet potatoes before serving. Place the dish under the broiler for just a minute or two to toast the marshmallows, creating a lightly caramelized, golden-brown topping. This twist is a nod to the beloved sweet potato casserole and adds an extra festive touch, especially during the holiday season.

Southern candied sweet potatoes are a testament to the beauty of simple, home-cooked food. The balance of sweet, buttery syrup with the natural earthiness of the potatoes creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re making them for a holiday meal, a family gathering, or simply to enjoy on a cozy evening, candied sweet potatoes bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and ability to be customized to your liking. Whether you prefer your sweet potatoes with a hint of spice from cinnamon and nutmeg or want to add a layer of crunch with toasted pecans, the possibilities are endless. No matter how you serve them, these Southern candied sweet potatoes are sure to be a hit at any table, reminding everyone of the charm and hospitality of Southern cooking.