Best-Ever Candied Yams

 

I normally think of candied yams as a Thanksgiving dish, but it's simple enough to make on any ordinary weeknight.  They are not only delicious, they're good for you too.  You just have to make sure you have time to bake them.  

1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup orange juice
3 Tbsp butter, plus more for pan
1 cinnamon stick

2 Tbsp bourbon

Pinch of nutmeg

Pinch of kosher salt

5 medium sweet potatoes (about 3 lbs)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Butter a medium baking dish.  

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, orange juice, butter, cinnamon stick, bourbon, nutmeg, and salt.   Stir to combine and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until it has thickened slightly, almost 10 minutes.  When reduced, remove and discard cinnamon stick.  

Peel potatoes and slice into 1/2" rounds, then layer in prepared baking dish.  Pour thickened syrup over potatoes and cover dish with aluminum foil.  

Bake 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake about 50 minutes to 1 hour more, basting with sauce every 15 minutes.  

Let cool slightly before serving.