Canned yams are a fantastic shortcut to enjoying this sweet, nutritious vegetable without the hassle of peeling and prepping fresh ones. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook canned yams in the oven to bring out their natural sweetness and create a comforting side dish, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through an easy, flavorful way to bake canned yams that will impress your family and guests.
Why Cook Canned Yams in the Oven?
Cooking canned yams in the oven is a great choice for several reasons:
– Convenience: Canned yams are already cooked and preserved, so baking them is quick and easy.
– Enhanced Flavor: The oven caramelizes the natural sugars in yams, deepening their sweetness and adding a rich, golden crust.
– Perfect Texture: Baking helps tenderize the yams further, making them soft, creamy, and deliciously melt-in-your-mouth.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these simple ingredients and tools:
– 1 can of yams (any brand)
– Olive oil or butter (for richness and browning)
– Brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
– Ground cinnamon and nutmeg (optional, for warm spice notes)
– Salt and pepper (to balance flavors)
– Baking sheet or baking dish
– Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Cook Canned Yams in the Oven
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for warming the yams through and allowing them to caramelize nicely.
Step 2: Prepare the Yams
Open the can and drain the syrup or liquid. If you want to reduce sweetness or excess syrup, rinse the yams gently under cold water and drain again.
Step 3: Arrange the Yams
Place the yams evenly in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet. Spread them out so they cook uniformly.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Moisture
Dot the yams with small pieces of butter or drizzle with olive oil. This adds richness and helps with browning.
Step 5: Season
Sprinkle brown sugar over the yams for a classic candied flavor. Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg for warmth and depth. Don’t forget a little salt and pepper to balance the sweetness.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to keep the yams moist. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the yams are heated through and tender.
Step 7: Caramelize the Top
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes. This step lets the yams caramelize and develop a golden-brown finish.
Optional Step: Add Marshmallows
For a traditional touch, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top during the last few minutes of baking. Watch carefully and bake until marshmallows are melted and lightly toasted.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Canned Yams
– Don’t skip rinsing if you want to control sweetness and avoid syrupy yams.
– Use a baking dish with sides to catch any bubbling syrup and avoid oven mess.
– Stir gently halfway through baking to coat yams evenly with the seasoning and butter.
– Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.
– For a savory variation, omit sugar and add herbs like rosemary or thyme with a touch of garlic.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked canned yams are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with:
– Roasted turkey or chicken
– Glazed ham
– Grilled pork chops
– Vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or stuffed peppers
They also make a sweet and satisfying addition to holiday meals or everyday dinners.
Cooking canned yams in the oven is a quick, fuss-free way to enjoy this sweet vegetable with rich flavor and tender texture. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can transform canned yams into a delicious, comforting side dish everyone will love.
Enjoy your oven-baked yams fresh and warm for a cozy, tasty treat!