Bourbon Brown Sugar Candied Sweet Potatoes
Recipe Introduction: Candied Sweet Potato Perfection
Fancy a treat? Ever wondered how to make candied sweet potato recipes that are actually good? These Bourbon & Brown Sugar Candied Sweet Potatoes are where it's at.
They have that melt-in-your mouth texture. It's a classic with a boozy twist.
This recipe takes inspiration from classic Southern candied sweet potatoes and brings them into the 21st century. It’s a super easy dish, perfect for anyone! Prep takes about 15 minutes.
Cooking needs around 35. You will get six servings.
What Makes These Sweet Potatoes So Special?
These aren't your average side dish. They are pure comfort. The bourbon adds a warmth. The brown sugar creates that dreamy glaze.
This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving. It's also brilliant for a Sunday roast.
Why These Sweet Potatoes Rock
Want to know the best part? Sweet potatoes are packed with Vitamin A! So, you can indulge. You can feel good about it.
Serve these at Thanksgiving. They'll be the star. You're gonna get requests for candied yams recipe after this. Honestly, I’ve never seen anything like it.
We're ditching the Yams with marshmallows because those are so last season. Plus, you get to skip the Thanksgiving sweet potatoes marshmallows .
This is a more elegant take. No marshmallows involved. No need to search for sweet potato casserole without marshmallows . This is Easy candied sweet potato recipe that you'll use over and over again.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Candied Sweet Potatoes
Ready to make some amazing candied sweet potato recipes ? Let's talk ingredients. Honestly, good ingredients make all the difference.
I remember one Thanksgiving , using sub-par sweet potatoes and the final dish was a total letdown. Lesson learned!
Main Ingredients Breakdown
- Sweet Potatoes: You'll need 2 lbs (900g) . Opt for firm sweet potatoes. The skins should be smooth and free of bruises. This helps ensure the perfect candied yams recipe .
- Butter: Use 1/2 cup (115g) of unsalted butter. Good quality butter really shines through.
- Brown Sugar: Grab 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar. The moistness of the brown sugar is what gives that lovely caramel flavor.
- Bourbon: 1/4 cup (60ml) of your favorite bourbon. Don't have bourbon? Apple cider vinegar works as a substitute for a non-alcoholic version.
- Water: Just 1/4 cup (60ml) to help everything melt together nicely.
- Spices: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. These warm spices will make your sweet potato casserole without marshmallows truly delicious.
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish.
Seasoning Notes
Cinnamon and nutmeg are your essential combo. They scream autumn, you know? Bourbon is a flavour enhancer, adding depth. Apple cider vinegar brightens everything up if you can't use bourbon.
For a real Southern twist, consider a dash of brown sugar glazed sweet potatoes . It's the subtle things that make all the difference to southern candied sweet potatoes .
Equipment Needed
You don't need fancy gadgets! These simple tools will do.
- Large Skillet: With a lid. This is crucial. A 12 inch skillet is perfect for even heating.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Gotta be precise, people!
- Peeler, Knife, Cutting Board: Obvious, right?
My grandmother used to say, “The best meals are made with love and a good skillet.” She'd often whip up some easy candied sweet potato recipes .
Remember, you can totally use a large pot if you don't have a skillet. Just make sure it has a lid!
Cooking With Bourbon and Brown Sugar: My Candied Sweet Potato Recipes Adventure
Honestly, who doesn't love a good candied sweet potato recipe ? Especially when it's cold outside. I wanted to share my twist on this classic using bourbon and brown sugar.
It is easy and delicious.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks In A Row
Okay, mise en place is key, people.
First, peel and slice your 2 lbs sweet potatoes into 1 inch rounds. Trust me, even slices cook evenly. Then, get out your 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup bourbon, and other ingredients.
Trust me, prepping everything first makes cooking so much smoother.
step-by-step Process: From Humble Spud to Sweet Treat
Let's get cooking!
- Melt the 1/2 cup butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar until dissolved.
- Carefully add 1/4 cup bourbon (or apple cider vinegar). Be careful; it might splutter.
- Stir in 1/4 cup water, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
- Arrange the sweet potato rounds in a single layer.
- Cover and simmer for 20- 25 minutes , until tender.
- Uncover and cook for 10- 15 minutes , until the sauce thickens, stirring.
- Garnish with nuts, if using, before serving.
Pro Tips for Sweet Potato Perfection
Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if you need to. This helps with browning. Watch the heat. Burnt sugar is not your friend.
For a bourbon candied sweet potato recipe , don't skimp on the bourbon. It adds a great depth. Want to prep ahead? Cook the sweet potatoes until almost tender.
Then, finish them just before serving. Voila! A stress free Thanksgiving or Sunday dinner. Many people might be looking for easy candied sweet potato recipe or brown sugar glazed sweet potatoes , This will cover most of that.
Some people even crave yams with marshmallows or thanksgiving sweet potatoes marshmallows , but I think you should give this recipe a try.
Recipe Notes: Sweet Potato Secrets and Serving Suggestions
Alright, so you're about to dive into these bourbon & brown sugar candied sweet potatoes . Exciting! But before you get all Gordon Ramsay on it, let's chat about a few little things that can make your life easier and your candied sweet potatoes baked taste even better.
Honestly, a few simple tricks can elevate these southern candied sweet potatoes from good to amazing .
Sweet Potato Plating Ideas
Presentation is key, right? After all, we eat with our eyes first. For a rustic vibe, pile the brown sugar glazed sweet potatoes high in a serving bowl.
Drizzle with any extra glaze from the pan. If you're feeling fancy, arrange the sweet potato rounds artfully on individual plates, maybe with a sprig of thyme or rosemary.
A dollop of crème fraîche would also be amazing. For drinks? How about a sparkling cider for a non-alcoholic option, or a glass of your favorite bourbon if you're keeping with the theme.
Sweet Potato Storage 101
Leftovers? Lucky you! These candied sweet potato recipes are great the next day. Let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
They'll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days . Freezing isn't really recommended , as the texture can get a little wonky.
Reheating is a breeze, just pop them in the microwave or warm them in a skillet over low heat.
Sweet Potato Variations: Getting Creative
Got dietary restrictions? No worries! For a vegan version, just swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative and make sure your brown sugar is vegan friendly.
Boom! dairy-free deliciousness. Want to spice things up? Throw in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
For a different seasonal twist, try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Trust me, it's delicious.
Sweet Potato Nutrition: The Good Stuff
Okay, let's be real, these easy candied sweet potato recipes are a treat. But sweet potatoes themselves are packed with good stuff.
They're a great source of Vitamin A and fiber. About 250-300 calories per serving, with some fat from the butter and carbs from the sugar.
But hey, everything in moderation, right? So, enjoy!
These thanksgiving sweet potatoes marshmallows are great, but you could go with Sweet potato casserole without marshmallows and have a more interesting dish.
Or even throw in some pecans to get some extra fiber into your diet.
So there you have it! With these tips and tricks, you're armed and ready to make the best bourbon candied sweet potato recipe you've ever tasted.
Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and enjoy every delicious bite. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these candied sweet potato recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making them a day or two in advance can actually enhance the flavors. Just allow the candied sweet potatoes to cool completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and gently reheat them on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
They're almost like a Christmas pudding - better with time!
What's the best way to store leftover Bourbon & Brown Sugar Candied Sweet Potatoes?
Store any leftover candied sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They'll keep well for about 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, on the stovetop over low heat (adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking), or in a low oven.
I don't have bourbon. What can I use instead in my candied sweet potato recipes?
No worries, mate! If you're avoiding alcohol, apple cider vinegar is a fantastic substitute. It adds a similar tang that balances the sweetness. Alternatively, you can use orange juice or even just plain water, though you might want to add a little extra spice for depth of flavor.
How can I prevent my candied sweet potatoes from being mushy?
The key is even slices and not overcrowding the pan. Ensure your sweet potato rounds are uniformly sliced to cook at the same rate. If your skillet is too crowded, they'll steam instead of caramelize, leading to mushiness.
Cook in batches if needed, and don't overcook them; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
Are candied sweet potato recipes healthy?
Sweet potatoes themselves are a good source of vitamins and fiber, offering a nutritional starting point. However, the addition of butter and sugar does increase the calorie and sugar content.
You can make healthier choices by using less sugar, substituting it with natural sweeteners like maple syrup, and using a healthy fat like coconut oil instead of butter. Portion control is also key!
Can I add other spices to these candied sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like ginger, cloves, or even a pinch of cardamom for a more exotic flavor profile. A little bit of nutmeg can also add a lovely warmth. Taste as you go and adjust according to your preferences. Consider adding a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick!
Bourbon Brown Sugar Candied Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 275 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |