What To Know
- Return the glazed yams to the oven and bake them for an additional 15 minutes, or until they are caramelized and bubbly.
- When ready to serve, remove the yams from the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- For a sweeter yam dish, add an extra 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the glaze.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and delicious food. But let’s be honest, preparing a feast for a crowd can be overwhelming. This year, take the stress out of your Thanksgiving prep with our game-changing recipe for make ahead Thanksgiving yams. By preparing these sweet and savory side dishes in advance, you can enjoy a more relaxed holiday while still wowing your guests with a delectable treat.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
To make our make ahead Thanksgiving yams, you will need:
- 5 pounds of yams, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
2. Prepare the Yams
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius). Place the yam cubes on a baking sheet and toss them with the melted butter. Spread the yams evenly over the baking sheet and roast them for 20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned.
3. Create the Sweet Glaze
While the yams are roasting, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
4. Glaze the Yams
Once the yams are roasted, remove them from the oven and pour the sweet glaze over them. Toss the yams to coat them evenly with the glaze.
5. Bake Again
Return the glazed yams to the oven and bake them for an additional 15 minutes, or until they are caramelized and bubbly.
6. Cool and Store
Remove the yams from the oven and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the yams to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
7. Reheat and Serve
When ready to serve, remove the yams from the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a festive touch.
8. Tips for Success
- For a sweeter yam dish, add an extra 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the glaze.
- If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute honey or agave nectar.
- To make your yams ahead of time, follow the recipe up to step 5. Once the yams are glazed, let them cool completely before refrigerating them. When ready to serve, reheat the yams according to the instructions in step 7.
9. Variations
- Cranberry Orange Yams: Add 1 cup of dried cranberries and 1/4 cup of orange zest to the sweet glaze.
- Pecan Pie Yams: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the sweet glaze.
- Mashed Sweet Potato Yams: Mash the roasted yams with a fork or potato masher. Add butter, milk, and spices to taste.
Top Questions Asked
Q: How long can I store make ahead Thanksgiving yams in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, make ahead Thanksgiving yams can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make these yams without roasting them first?
A: No, roasting the yams before glazing them helps to caramelize the sugars and create a delicious crispy exterior.
Q: Can I use canned yams instead of fresh yams?
A: Yes, you can use canned yams. However, fresh yams will yield a more flavorful and nutritious dish.
Q: Can I make these yams in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make these yams in a slow cooker. Place the roasted yams in the slow cooker and add the sweet glaze. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until warmed through.
