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This old-fashioned southern sweet potato dish comes from my grandma's recipe collection. These yams simmer gently in melted butter, brown sugar, and cozy spices until they soften completely. That little bit of orange juice concentrate gives a nice tang, turning these sweet potatoes into a truly comforting treat.
Down-Home Southern Goodness
Cooking on the stovetop gives me full command of the process, watching that sweet mixture bubble while the potatoes soften. My home fills with echoes of family dinners as spices mix with sweet citrus and buttery caramel notes. Basic ingredients come together for something absolutely wonderful.
Straight From My Table
- Good pinch of sea salt
- Pure vanilla extract
- Fresh grated nutmeg really counts
- Ground cinnamon
- Real butter always, no substitutes
- White sugar creates balance
- Dark brown sugar for deep flavor
- Sweet potatoes with rich orange flesh
- Orange juice concentrate for that special touch
Creating Deliciousness
- Worth the Wait
- Remove from burner and let sit a couple minutes before you serve
- Final Touch
- Take lid off raise the heat and let syrup get thick around every piece for about 10 minutes
- Low and Slow
- Once bubbling turn heat down cover and let cook roughly 50 minutes stirring occasionally
- Layer the Flavors
- Toss in your sugars butter seasonings vanilla orange juice and salt then mix everything lightly
- First Steps
- Take off potato skins cut into rounds and put them in your cooking pot
My Kitchen Tips
Choose potatoes roughly the same size and cut them evenly for better cooking. Don't stir too hard or they'll break apart. The orange juice concentrate isn't optional, it totally transforms the dish.
Get Ready Early
You can cook these up to three days before you need them, just keep them covered in your refrigerator. Warm them slowly on your stove when you're ready to eat. They'll taste even better after sitting for a day or two.
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Tasty Companions
These sweet potatoes are amazing at Thanksgiving beside your turkey and trimmings. They're also great with Sunday's fried chicken or paired with smoky greens and rich, creamy macaroni and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can this be prepared early?
Absolutely, prep it up to 3 days before. The taste gets even better over time.
- → How do I check for doneness?
If a fork slides in easily and the yams are soft when you sample, they're good to go.
- → Can sweetness be adjusted?
Sure, start with less sugar. Taste as you go and add more, or thin it out with extra butter or water.
- → Why use 1/2-inch slices?
It helps them stay firm while cooking. Thinner ones might fall apart.
- → What if the syrup thickens too much?
Add a splash of water to smooth it out to your liking.