Canned yams are a fantastic pantry staple that can save you time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you want a quick side dish or a base for a comforting casserole, cooking canned yams is easy and versatile. In this article, we’ll explore several simple methods to cook canned yams, along with tips and tasty ideas to elevate this sweet and nutritious ingredient.
What Are Canned Yams?
First, a quick note: canned yams are usually cooked sweet potatoes packed in syrup or water. They are already soft and ready to eat, which means your cooking time is mostly about heating and adding flavor. This convenience makes canned yams perfect for quick meals or holiday dishes like sweet potato casserole.
How to Cook Canned Yams: Step-by-Step Methods
1. Oven-Baked Yams with Marshmallows
This classic method is perfect for a sweet, sticky treat, especially during the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 (29 to 40-ounce) can yams, drained
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup miniature marshmallows
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Drain the yams and place them in an 8×8 baking dish.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the yams.
- Mash the butter into the yams until well combined.
- Spread a layer of marshmallows on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until marshmallows are melted and golden.
- For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Enjoy the warm, gooey sweetness fresh from the oven!
2. Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
For a richer, more textured dish, try this sweet potato casserole using canned yams.
Ingredients:
– 40 oz canned yams, drained
– 5 tablespoons salted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
– 1/3 cup milk
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 cup toasted, chopped pecans
– 5 tablespoons butter, slightly melted (for topping)
– 2/3 cup brown sugar (for topping)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Pinch of kosher salt
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking pan.
- Drain and mash the yams in a large bowl.
- Add melted butter, eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- For the topping, combine brown sugar, flour, and salt in a bowl. Add pecans and melted butter, stirring until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the yams.
- Bake for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
This dish is sweet, nutty, and perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts!
3. Baking Canned Yams for a Simple Side
If you want to keep it straightforward, baking canned yams with a bit of seasoning is a great option.
Instructions:
- Open the can and drain the liquid.
- Rinse the yams with cold water to remove excess syrup or salt.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the yams on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Optionally, sprinkle with garlic powder, cumin, paprika, or brown sugar for flavor.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
This method brings out the natural sweetness and adds a lovely texture.
4. Quick Microwave Method
For a super fast option, microwaving canned yams is ideal.
Instructions:
- Drain and rinse the yams.
- Place them in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover loosely and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir and check for warmth; microwave additional time if needed.
- Add butter, cinnamon, or brown sugar to taste.
This is perfect for when you need a quick side without heating the oven.
Tips for Cooking Canned Yams
– Always drain and rinse canned yams to reduce excess syrup or saltiness.
– Use fresh ingredients like butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar to enhance flavor.
– Avoid overcooking to keep yams from becoming mushy.
– Experiment with toppings like marshmallows, pecans, or even savory herbs.
– Mash or leave whole depending on your recipe or preference.
Delicious Ideas to Try with Canned Yams
– Sweet Potato Casserole: Mix yams with eggs, butter, brown sugar, and vanilla; top with pecan crumble or marshmallows.
– Mashed Yams: Mash with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt for a creamy side.
– Roasted Yams: Toss with spices and roast for a caramelized finish.
– Yam Fries: Slice and bake or fry for a crispy snack.
– Yam Pudding or Pie: Use mashed yams as a base for desserts.
Canned yams are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to sweet or savory dishes with ease.
Cooking canned yams is quick, simple, and delicious. Whether baked with marshmallows, made into a casserole, or quickly microwaved, they make a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal. Enjoy experimenting with these methods and find your favorite way to cook canned yams!