Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe: A Classic Southern Delight

Name: Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486253H46M18S
Total time: PT-486253H46M18S
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup water; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional); 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are a beloved dish that perfectly captures the essence of Southern comfort food. With their rich, sweet syrup and tender texture, these sweet potatoes are a staple on holiday tables and special occasions. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to making this delectable side dish, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Why You'll Love Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they are a testament to the culinary traditions of the South. Here’s why you’ll love them:

Deliciously Sweet: The combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar creates a rich, caramelized syrup that coats each slice of sweet potato.
Perfectly Tender: The cooking process ensures that the sweet potatoes become soft and flavorful.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Versatile: Ideal for holiday feasts, family dinners, or any special occasion, this dish pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Ingredients for Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

To make the perfect Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Sweet Potatoes

4 large sweet potatoes: Peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds. Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, providing a naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the syrup.

Syrup Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth syrup.
1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the syrup’s consistency.
½ cup brown sugar, packed: Enhances the flavor with a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
¼ cup water: Helps to dissolve the sugars and create the syrup.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic spice.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a slightly nutty flavor.
¼ teaspoon ground ginger (optional): Adds a hint of spice. This is optional but can add an extra layer of flavor.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adds a rich, sweet aroma. This is optional but can enhance the flavor of the syrup.

Instructions for Making Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Follow these steps to create the perfect Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and slicing them into ½-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on a plate and set aside.

2. Make the Syrup

In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and salt. Stir continuously until the sugars dissolve and the mixture becomes a smooth, glossy syrup.

3. Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Carefully add the sweet potato slices to the skillet, arranging them in an even layer if possible. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the sweet potatoes simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that the potatoes cook evenly and are well coated with the syrup.

4. Finish the Dish

After 30 minutes, check the sweet potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender and easily pierced. If the potatoes are not yet tender, continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes until fully cooked. Stir in the vanilla extract just before serving, if desired.

5. Serve

Transfer the candied sweet potatoes to a serving dish and spoon the syrup over the top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes

Select large, firm sweet potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Avoid those with soft spots or blemishes.

Caramelization Tips

Be patient while making the syrup. Allow the sugar to fully dissolve and caramelize to achieve the rich, deep flavor that characterizes this dish.

Adjust Sweetness

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. You can also add a bit more cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth and spice.

Enhance the Flavor

Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cloves to add complexity to the syrup. A splash of bourbon or a sprinkle of toasted pecans can also elevate the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes make an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses, including:

Roast Turkey or Chicken: The sweet and savory flavors complement poultry dishes beautifully.
Ham: The rich syrup pairs perfectly with the salty, smoky flavor of ham.
Pork: Serve alongside pork chops or tenderloin for a satisfying meal.

FAQs About Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Can I make Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet potatoes in advance. Cook them as directed, then let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked sweet potatoes. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop.

Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

While sweet potatoes are traditional, you can experiment with other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. However, the flavor and texture will be different from the classic version.

What can I use if I don’t have vanilla extract?

If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of almond extract or a splash of orange juice for a different flavor profile.

Can I adjust the level of sweetness?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of granulated sugar and brown sugar according to your taste preferences. You can also reduce the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet dish.