Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and delicious food. One popular dish that often graces the table is candied yams. These sweet, tender tubers are a crowd favorite and can be the star of the show at your Thanksgiving feast. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this article will guide you through the process of cooking yams for Thanksgiving.

Step 1: Selecting the Right Yams

When it comes to cooking yams for Thanksgiving, choosing the right ones is crucial. Look for yams that are firm, have smooth skin, and are free from blemishes. The vibrant orange flesh signifies that the yam is fresh and flavorful. Make sure to buy yams that are similar in size, as this will help ensure even cooking.

Pro Tip: Yams can often be confused with sweet potatoes. While they are similar, true yams have a rough, scaly skin and are starchier than their sweet potato counterparts.

Preparing the Yams

Before you can cook yams for Thanksgiving, you need to properly prepare them. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Selecting the yams: Choose yams that are firm, smooth, and free from any bruises or blemishes. Look for yams that have vibrant skin color, whether it’s orange, purple, or white.

2. Cleaning the yams: Thoroughly wash the yams under running water to remove any dirt and debris. Use a vegetable brush to scrub off any stubborn dirt. Pat the yams dry with a clean kitchen towel.

3. Peeling the yams: Use a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler to remove the yam’s skin. Start from one end and work your way down, ensuring that you remove all the skin. Alternatively, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrition.

4. Cutting the yams: Cut the yams into evenly sized pieces, about 1 to 2 inches thick. This will ensure that they cook evenly. You can cut the yams into rounds, cubes, or any other shape you prefer.

5. Preparing the cooking liquid: Fill a large pot with water or broth, and add a pinch of salt for seasoning. For added flavor, you can also add herbs and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or thyme. Bring the liquid to a boil.

6. Boiling the yams: Carefully add the yam pieces to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the yams simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender. Check for doneness by piercing a fork into a yam piece. If it easily slides in and out, the yams are ready.

7. Removing the yams: Using a slotted spoon or tongs, carefully remove the cooked yam pieces from the liquid and transfer them to a plate or baking dish. Allow them to cool slightly before further preparation.

8. Optional step: Roasting the yams: If you prefer a caramelized and slightly crispy texture, you can roast the cooked yams in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the yams on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and any desired spices, and roast for about 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through.

Now that you’ve properly prepared the yams, you’re ready to proceed with your Thanksgiving recipe of choice.

Choosing the yams

When it comes to cooking yams for Thanksgiving, choosing the right yams is crucial. You want to select yams that are fresh, firm, and vibrant in color. Look for yams that have smooth, unblemished skin without any soft spots or signs of decay.

One way to ensure that you are getting fresh yams is to buy them from a reputable source, such as a local farmer’s market or a trusted grocery store. Yams that have been sitting on the shelf for too long may have lost their flavor and texture, so it’s best to avoid those.

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In terms of color, you want to go for yams that are a deep orange or reddish-brown hue. This indicates that they are ripe and sweet. Avoid yams that are pale in color, as they may be underripe and lacking in flavor.

Size also matters when choosing yams. Look for medium-sized yams that are uniform in shape. Avoid yams that are too small, as they may be dry and lack the desired creaminess when cooked. On the other hand, avoid yams that are too large, as they may take longer to cook and can be harder to peel and cut.

Lastly, it’s important to note that yams are often confused with sweet potatoes. While they may look similar, there are differences in taste and texture. If you specifically want to cook yams for Thanksgiving, make sure to check the labeling or ask the store for assistance to ensure that you are purchasing the right vegetable.

Remember, selecting the right yams is the first step to creating a delicious Thanksgiving dish that your family and friends will love. So take your time, examine the yams carefully, and choose the best ones for your holiday meal.

Washing and peeling the yams

Before you begin cooking your yams for Thanksgiving, it’s important to properly wash and peel them. This will ensure that your yams are clean and ready to be cooked.

Start by rinsing the yams under cold water to remove any dirt or debris that may be on the skin. Use a vegetable brush or your hands to gently scrub the yams, making sure to clean all sides.

Once the yams are clean, it’s time to peel them. You can use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife for this step. Carefully remove the thin outer layer of the yams, ensuring that you remove all the skin without wasting too much of the yam itself.

Peeling the yams will not only enhance the appearance of the dish but also make it easier to cook and eat. Plus, removing the skin will allow the flavors and seasonings to penetrate the yams more effectively.

After peeling, rinse the yams again to make sure there are no leftover peels or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel before proceeding with your chosen recipe.

Cooking Methods

There are several cooking methods you can use to prepare yams for your Thanksgiving meal. Each method provides a slightly different flavor and texture, so you can choose the one that suits your taste preferences.

1. Roasting

Roasting yams brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a caramelized exterior. To roast yams, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cut the yams into evenly sized pieces. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings. Spread the yams in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.

2. Boiling

Boiling yams is a quick and easy method that yields soft, tender results. Start by peeling and cutting the yams into chunks. Place the yam pieces in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt to the water if desired. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Cook the yams for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork. Drain the yams and serve as desired.

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3. Steaming

Steaming is another gentle cooking method that helps retain the yams’ natural flavors. To steam yams, peel and cut them into chunks. Place a steamer basket in a pot filled with a small amount of water, making sure the water does not touch the bottom of the basket. Add the yam chunks to the basket, cover the pot, and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and steam the yams for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Choose the cooking method that fits your preferences, and enjoy the delicious taste of yams on your Thanksgiving table!

Boiling the yams

Boiling is a simple and effective method for cooking yams for Thanksgiving. It helps to soften the yams and bring out their natural sweetness. Here’s how you can boil the yams to perfection:

1. Start by selecting firm and well-shaped yams. Look for yams that are free from any cuts or blemishes.

2. Wash the yams thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.

3. Peel the yams using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Make sure to remove the thin skin completely.

4. Cut the yams into uniformly-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

5. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the yams and add a pinch of salt for flavor.

6. Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil.

7. Carefully add the yam pieces to the boiling water and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

8. Test the doneness of the yams by inserting a fork into one of the pieces. If it goes through easily, the yams are ready.

9. Once the yams are cooked, remove them from the boiling water using a slotted spoon or a strainer.

10. Transfer the boiled yams to a serving bowl and let them cool slightly before using them in your Thanksgiving recipes.

Boiling the Yams – Quick Overview
Steps Description
1 Select firm and well-shaped yams.
2 Wash the yams thoroughly.
3 Peel the yams.
4 Cut the yams into uniformly-sized pieces.
5 Fill a pot with water and add salt.
6 Bring the water to a boil.
7 Add the yam pieces to the boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes.
8 Test the doneness of yams with a fork.
9 Remove the yams from the boiling water.
10 Transfer the boiled yams to a serving bowl and let them cool.

Baking the yams

Once the yams have been peeled and cut into chunks, it’s time to bake them. Baking the yams helps to bring out their natural flavors and makes them soft and tender. Here’s how you can bake the yams for your Thanksgiving feast:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the yams cook evenly and become perfectly tender.

2. Arrange the yams in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd the yams as this can cause them to steam instead of roast.

3. Drizzle the yams with a generous amount of olive oil, ensuring that each piece is coated. The oil helps to enhance the flavor and promotes browning.

4. Season the yams with salt and pepper according to your taste. You can also add other seasonings like cinnamon, nutmeg, or brown sugar for a sweet and savory twist.

5. Toss the yams gently with your hands to evenly distribute the oil and seasonings.

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6. Place the baking sheet with the yams in the preheated oven.

7. Bake the yams for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size of the yam chunks.

8. Check the doneness of the yams by inserting a fork or knife into one of the chunks. If it goes in easily and without resistance, the yams are done.

9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the yams cool for a few minutes before serving. The yams will continue to soften slightly as they cool.

Note: Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on the yams and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for more even browning.

Once the yams are baked, they are ready to be enjoyed as a delicious and nutritious side dish for your Thanksgiving meal!

Q&A

What are some traditional ways of cooking yams for Thanksgiving?

There are several traditional ways of cooking yams for Thanksgiving. One popular method is to bake them in the oven. Another common way is to boil them and then mash them with butter and spices. Some people also like to roast yams with a glaze made from brown sugar and maple syrup.

Can yams be cooked in a slow cooker?

Yes, yams can be cooked in a slow cooker. Simply peel and chop the yams, then place them in the slow cooker with some water or broth. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the yams are soft and tender.

How long does it take to bake yams?

The baking time for yams can vary depending on their size and the temperature of the oven. Generally, it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake yams at 375°F (190°C). You can test their doneness by piercing them with a fork. If the fork easily goes through, the yams are done.

What are some creative ways to serve cooked yams?

There are many creative ways to serve cooked yams. You can make a sweet potato casserole by topping mashed yams with a mixture of brown sugar, pecans, and marshmallows, then baking it until the topping is golden and crispy. Another idea is to make yam fries by cutting the cooked yams into strips, tossing them in oil and spices, and baking or frying until crispy.

Can yams be cooked ahead of time?

Yes, yams can be cooked ahead of time. If you’re baking them, you can bake them the day before and then reheat them in the oven on Thanksgiving Day. If you’re boiling them, you can boil them the day before and keep them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

What are yams?

Yams are starchy tuber vegetables that belong to the Dioscorea genus and are native to Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. They are similar in appearance to sweet potatoes but have a different taste and texture.

How do I cook yams for Thanksgiving?

There are several ways to cook yams for Thanksgiving. One popular method is to peel and dice the yams, then boil them until they are fork-tender. You can also roast or bake the yams in the oven with some butter, brown sugar, and spices for added flavor. Another option is to mash the cooked yams with butter, milk, and seasonings to make a creamy side dish.