Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish to serve at your next family gathering or holiday meal? Look no further than candied sweet potatoes. This classic Southern dish is a staple of many family traditions, and with our step-by-step video guide, you’ll be able to make it like a pro.
What are Candied Sweet Potatoes?
Candied sweet potatoes are a type of sweet potato dish that is made by cooking sweet potatoes in a sweet syrup made from sugar, butter, and spices. The sweet potatoes are typically sliced or cubed and then cooked in the syrup until they are tender and caramelized. The result is a sweet and sticky side dish that is perfect for serving alongside your favorite holiday main courses.
The Benefits of Making Candied Sweet Potatoes
There are many benefits to making candied sweet potatoes. Here are just a few:
- They’re easy to make: Candied sweet potatoes are a relatively simple dish to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills.
- They’re delicious: The combination of sweet potatoes, sugar, and spices is a classic one, and the result is a dish that is both sweet and savory.
- They’re versatile: Candied sweet potatoes can be served as a side dish, or they can be used as a topping for other dishes, such as salads or yogurt parfaits.
Ingredients Needed to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
To make candied sweet potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2-3 large sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
You can also add other ingredients to your candied sweet potatoes to give them extra flavor. Some options include:
- Marshmallows: Mini marshmallows can be added to the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking to give them a fun and fluffy texture.
- Pecans: Chopped pecans can be added to the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking to give them a crunchy texture.
- Orange zest: Grated orange zest can be added to the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking to give them a burst of citrus flavor.
Equipment Needed to Make Candied Sweet Potatoes
To make candied sweet potatoes, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Baking dish
Video Equipment
If you want to make a video of your candied sweet potatoes, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Camera
- Tripod
- Microphone
- Lighting
- Video editing software
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Candied Sweet Potatoes
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making candied sweet potatoes:
Step 1: Peel and Slice the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and slicing them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Tip:
Use a mandoline or sharp knife to get even, thin slices.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
Tip:
Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the syrup reaches the correct temperature (240°F).
Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes to the Syrup
Add the sliced sweet potatoes to the syrup and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and caramelized.
Tip:
Use a wooden spoon to gently stir the sweet potatoes and prevent them from breaking apart.
Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients (Optional)
If using, add the marshmallows, pecans, or orange zest to the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Tip:
Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients into the sweet potatoes.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the candied sweet potatoes hot, garnished with chopped pecans or marshmallows if desired.
Tip:
Use a serving spoon to portion out the sweet potatoes and prevent them from breaking apart.
How to Make a Video of Your Candied Sweet Potatoes
If you want to make a video of your candied sweet potatoes, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use good lighting: Natural light is always best, but if you’re shooting indoors, use a well-lit studio or invest in some high-quality lighting equipment.
- Use a tripod: A tripod will help you keep your camera steady and prevent shaky footage.
- Use a microphone: Good audio is just as important as good video. Use a high-quality microphone to capture clear, crisp sound.
- Edit your footage: Use video editing software to trim, cut, and arrange your footage into a cohesive video.
Video Script
Here’s a sample script you can use for your video:
“Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re making candied sweet potatoes. This classic Southern dish is a staple of many family traditions, and with our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to make it like a pro.
First, we’ll start by peeling and slicing the sweet potatoes. Use a mandoline or sharp knife to get even, thin slices.
Next, we’ll make the syrup. In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, water, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
Now it’s time to add the sweet potatoes to the syrup. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and caramelized.
If using, add the marshmallows, pecans, or orange zest to the sweet potatoes during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Finally, serve the candied sweet potatoes hot, garnished with chopped pecans or marshmallows if desired.
Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you in the next video!”
Conclusion
Making candied sweet potatoes is a fun and easy process that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With our step-by-step video guide, you’ll be able to make this classic Southern dish like a pro. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you.
Final Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: The best candied sweet potatoes are made with high-quality ingredients, so be sure to use fresh sweet potatoes and real butter.
- Don’t overcook the sweet potatoes: Candied sweet potatoes should be tender, but still firm. Overcooking can make them mushy and unappetizing.
- Experiment with different ingredients: While the classic recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with different ingredients, such as different types of sugar or spices, to create your own unique flavor combinations.
What are candied sweet potatoes and how do they taste?
Candied sweet potatoes are a popular side dish made by cooking sweet potatoes in a sweet syrup, resulting in a tender and caramelized exterior with a soft interior. They have a sweet and slightly sticky flavor, often accompanied by spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
The sweetness of the syrup balances out the natural earthy flavor of the sweet potatoes, creating a deliciously sweet and savory taste experience. The texture is also a highlight, with the tender sweet potatoes coated in a crunchy, caramelized sugar crust.
What type of sweet potatoes are best for candying?
For making candied sweet potatoes, it’s best to use sweet potatoes that are high in moisture and have a naturally sweet flavor. Jewel or Beauregard sweet potatoes are popular varieties that work well for candying.
These sweet potatoes have a softer, more moist flesh that absorbs the sweet syrup well, resulting in a tender and flavorful final product. Avoid using sweet potatoes that are too starchy or dry, as they may not absorb the syrup as well and can become too sweet.
What is the best way to cook candied sweet potatoes?
The best way to cook candied sweet potatoes is by boiling or baking them until they’re tender, then finishing them off in a sweet syrup on the stovetop or in the oven. This two-step cooking process helps to cook the sweet potatoes through while also caramelizing the exterior.
Boiling or baking the sweet potatoes first helps to break down the starches and makes them more receptive to the sweet syrup. Then, finishing them off in the syrup adds a rich, caramelized flavor and a crunchy texture.
Can I make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make candied sweet potatoes ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them just before serving for optimal flavor and texture. If you need to make them ahead, you can cook the sweet potatoes and prepare the syrup, then refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to finish them off.
To reheat, simply place the sweet potatoes in the syrup and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re warmed through and caramelized. You can also reheat them in the oven, covered with foil, until they’re tender and caramelized.
How do I store leftover candied sweet potatoes?
Leftover candied sweet potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, let the sweet potatoes cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
When you’re ready to reheat, simply place the sweet potatoes in the syrup and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re warmed through and caramelized. You can also reheat them in the oven, covered with foil, until they’re tender and caramelized.
Can I customize the recipe with different spices or flavorings?
Yes, you can customize the recipe with different spices or flavorings to suit your taste preferences. Some popular variations include adding a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
You can also experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, to create a unique flavor profile. Additionally, you can add a splash of citrus juice, such as orange or lemon, to balance out the sweetness.
Is the video guide suitable for beginners?
Yes, the video guide is suitable for beginners, as it provides a step-by-step tutorial on how to make candied sweet potatoes. The guide covers everything from preparing the sweet potatoes to cooking them in the syrup, and includes helpful tips and tricks along the way.
The video guide is designed to be easy to follow, with clear instructions and close-up shots of each step. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll be able to follow along and create delicious candied sweet potatoes with ease.