Yams are a wonderfully versatile root vegetable that can be cooked in many ways, but cooking them on the stove is one of the easiest and quickest methods. Whether you want to boil, steam, or make a sweet candied yam dish, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cook yams perfectly on your stovetop.
What Are Yams?
Before we dive into cooking, it’s helpful to know what yams actually are. Yams are starchy tubers native to Africa and parts of Asia, distinct from sweet potatoes, though often confused with them in the U.S. They have a rough, bark-like skin and can have flesh that is white, yellow, purple, or pink. Yams tend to be drier and starchier than sweet potatoes, making them ideal for hearty dishes.
Preparing Yams for Cooking
Start by selecting firm, unblemished yams. Wash them thoroughly under running water. Depending on your recipe, you may want to peel the yams before cooking or cook them with the skin on and peel afterward. For stove cooking, peeling and cutting into evenly sized pieces helps them cook evenly and faster.
How to Cook Yams on the Stove
There are several popular ways to cook yams on the stove, each bringing out different textures and flavors.
Boiling Yams
Boiling is a classic and straightforward method that softens yams perfectly for mashing or serving as a side.
– Peel and cut yams into uniform chunks (about 1-2 inch pieces).
– Place the pieces in a pot and cover with cold water.
– Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
– Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
– Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
– Drain the water and serve or use in recipes.
Steaming Yams
Steaming preserves more nutrients and gives yams a firmer texture.
– Peel and cut yams into even pieces.
– Place them in a steamer basket or colander set over a pot of boiling water.
– Cover with a lid and steam for 20-25 minutes until tender.
– Remove and serve or mash as desired.
Making Candied Yams on the Stove
Candied yams are a beloved sweet side dish, especially during holidays, and you can make them easily on the stove.
– Use canned yams or cook fresh yams first by boiling or steaming.
– Drain the yams and place them in a medium saucepan.
– Add butter or margarine, brown sugar or maple syrup, and warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
– Cook on medium heat, stirring gently, until the sugar melts and coats the yams, about 10-15 minutes.
– Let the yams sit covered for a few minutes to absorb flavors.
– Serve warm for a sweet, rich treat.
Tips for Perfect Stove-Cooked Yams
– Cut yams into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
– Don’t overcook; yams should be tender but not mushy unless you want mashed yams.
– For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to boiling water or a splash of butter after cooking.
– Experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick.
– If using canned yams, rinse them to reduce excess syrup before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Stove-cooked yams are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a simple side with butter and herbs, mash them with garlic and cream cheese for a comforting dish, or dress them up as candied yams with sweet spices. They pair well with roasted meats, stews, or vegetarian meals.
Cooking yams on the stove is an easy, delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. Whether boiled, steamed, or candied, yams bring warmth and flavor to your table with minimal effort. Enjoy experimenting and making this humble root a star of your meals!