Air-Fried Candied Yams: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Candied yams are a delicious treat that can be made in an air fryer with just a few simple steps. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook yams, resulting in a crispy and flavorful dish. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a tasty side dish or snack that will impress your family and friends. So, get ready to fire up your air fryer and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of candied yams!

Selecting the right yams

When selecting yams for your recipe, you can choose between fresh yams or canned yams. Fresh yams can be found at most grocery stores, while canned yams are readily available in the canned goods section. If using canned yams, look for a brand that uses high-quality ingredients and avoids preservatives or additives. Opt for yams packed in their natural juices or light syrup for the best flavour and texture.

If you decide to use fresh yams, make sure they are firm and not too soft for even cooking. You will need to peel and cut the yams into uniform pieces, typically about 1-inch cubes or slightly smaller. This ensures that the yams cook evenly and achieve the desired crispy texture in the air fryer.

Whether you use fresh or canned yams, it is important to properly prepare them before cooking. Drain and rinse the yams to remove any excess syrup or juice that may affect the final result. Pat the yams dry before tossing them with oil and seasonings to help them crisp up in the air fryer.

In summary, when selecting the right yams for your air fryer candied yam recipe, consider the following:

• The difference between yams and sweet potatoes
• The option of using fresh or canned yams
• The quality and ingredients of canned yams
• The firmness and uniformity of fresh yam pieces
• Proper preparation and seasoning of the yams before cooking

Preparing the ingredients

Firstly, gather your ingredients. For this recipe, you will need yams, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and optionally, nutmeg, ginger powder, lemon juice, and mini marshmallows. The amount of each ingredient will depend on your desired serving size and taste preferences.

Next, prepare your yams. Peel the yams and cut them into even pieces. The size of the pieces can vary, but it is important to ensure they are uniform in size to allow for even cooking. You can cut them into cubes or slices, aiming for a thickness of about 1/4 to 3/4 of an inch.

After your yams are prepared, it's time to make the coating. Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and cinnamon. You can also add other spices like nutmeg, ginger powder, or a pinch of salt to taste. Stir the mixture until it forms a thick syrup. If you like, add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Now, it's time to coat the yams. Place the peeled and sliced yams in a bowl and pour the butter-sugar mixture over them, ensuring that all the pieces are evenly coated. You can use a spoon or spatula to gently toss the yams until they are completely covered in the sweet glaze.

At this point, you can also choose to add some mini marshmallows to the mix. The marshmallows will melt and create a gooey, delicious topping. However, if you prefer, you can also add the marshmallows towards the end of the cooking process, as suggested in some recipes.

Finally, arrange the coated yams in your air fryer basket. Place them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This arrangement will allow for even cooking and browning. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the yams in batches or adjust the amount of yams used.

Now that your ingredients are prepared and arranged, your air fryer yams are ready to be cooked! Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, usually around 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 200°C), and you're ready for the next step – cooking your delicious candied yams to perfection!

Cooking the yams

First, peel the yams and cut them into even pieces. A good size is about 1-inch cubes or ¾” cubes. If you are using canned yams, drain and rinse them, and then cut them into chunks.

Next, coat the yams in a mixture of melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. You can also add in some nutmeg, ginger, or other spices if you like. This coating will give the yams a rich, sweet flavor that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer.

Now it's time to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) to 375°F (190°C). You can lightly coat the air fryer basket with non-stick baking spray or brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Place the coated yams in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can hinder the circulation of hot air and lead to uneven results.

Cook the yams for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides are evenly cooked. You can also flip the yams using tongs or a spatula halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning.

The yams are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. They should have a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior. If they are not quite done, you can cook them for a few more minutes until they reach the desired doneness.

Once the yams are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and caramelized candied yams!

Serving suggestions

Candied yams are a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course. They pair well with a variety of entrees and sides, making them a perfect addition to any holiday table or regular meal. Here are some specific serving suggestions:

• Green Bean Casserole: Candied yams go well with green bean casserole, a classic side dish that complements the sweetness of the yams.
• Dressing or Stuffing: The savoury flavours of dressing or stuffing can balance the sweetness of the candied yams, making them a tasty pairing.
• Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole, Air Fryer Cornbread Dressing, Air Fryer Beets and Brussels Sprouts, Smoked Turkey Wings: These air-fried dishes are excellent choices to serve alongside candied yams, especially if you want to showcase the versatility of your air fryer.
• Microwave Applesauce: For a contrast in textures and flavours, serve candied yams with smooth and tangy applesauce made in the microwave.
• Air Fryer Ham Steak: For a hearty meal, pair candied yams with air fryer ham steak. The salty and savoury ham will balance the sweetness of the yams.
• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Casserole: If you're a fan of sweet potatoes, try serving them in a casserole form as a side dish alongside your candied yams.
• Roasted Beets and Sweet Potatoes in the Air Fryer: This dish highlights the versatility of root vegetables and complements the flavours of candied yams.
• Air Fryer Hasselback Sweet Potatoes: For a fun and crispy take on sweet potatoes, try the Hasselback variety, which will add a unique texture to your meal.
• Ninja Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries are a fun and tasty twist on traditional fries, making them a great side dish to serve with candied yams.
• Meat Dishes: Candied yams can also be served alongside meat dishes, such as turkey or ham, for a more substantial meal.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations to find your favourite pairings! The versatility of candied yams makes them a delightful addition to any meal.

Storing and reheating

When you're ready to enjoy your candied yams again, you have a few reheating options. You can use a microwave, an oven, or even your air fryer. If using a microwave, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30 to 60 seconds on high power. For the oven or air fryer, place the candied yams in an oven-safe dish and reheat at 325°F for 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are warmed through.

It is important to note that if you are using an air fryer for reheating, it is best to use a lower temperature to avoid burning the sugar topping. You can also adjust the reheating time as needed, depending on the quantity of yams and your desired level of warmth.

Now you can enjoy your delicious candied yams again!

Frequently asked questions