Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, food! And while turkey and stuffing often steal the spotlight, yams deserve a place of honor on your holiday table. These naturally sweet and vibrantly colored tubers are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Forget the overly sweet, marshmallow-laden versions of the past; it’s time to explore the versatility of yams with these exciting and easy-to-follow recipes. We’ll delve into both classic and innovative yam dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
**Understanding Yams (and Sweet Potatoes!): The Great Debate**
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s address the common confusion between yams and sweet potatoes. In the United States, what we typically call ‘yams’ are actually a variety of sweet potatoes with orange flesh. True yams, which are native to Africa and Asia, have rough, brown skin and drier, starchier flesh. For the purpose of these recipes, we will be using the orange-fleshed sweet potatoes commonly sold as yams in American grocery stores. If you happen to find true yams, you can still adapt these recipes, but you may need to adjust cooking times and add a bit more moisture.
**Recipe 1: Classic Candied Yams with a Modern Twist**
This recipe takes the traditional candied yams and elevates them with a touch of sophistication. We’re keeping the sweetness but balancing it with warm spices and a hint of citrus.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 pounds yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/4 cup maple syrup
* 1/4 cup orange juice
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* Pinch of salt
* Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Yams:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed yams with the melted butter. Ensure all the pieces are evenly coated.
2. **Combine the Sauce:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined. This luscious sauce will infuse the yams with incredible flavor.
3. **Assemble and Bake:** Pour the sauce over the yams in the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Transfer the yams to a 9×13 inch baking dish in a single layer. If you are using nuts, sprinkle them over the top at this point.
4. **Bake to Perfection:** Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the yams are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The sauce should be bubbly and slightly caramelized.
5. **Rest and Serve:** Let the yams rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a touch of heat.
* **Citrus Zest:** Grate the zest of one orange into the sauce for a more pronounced citrus flavor.
* **Bourbon Infusion:** Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the sauce for a boozy twist.
* **Marshmallow Topping (Optional):** For a more traditional candied yam experience, sprinkle mini marshmallows over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
**Recipe 2: Savory Roasted Yams with Herbs and Garlic**
Yams aren’t just for sweet dishes! Roasting them with herbs and garlic brings out their natural sweetness while creating a savory and satisfying side dish. This recipe is a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving turkey or ham.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
* 3 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Yams:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed yams with olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure the yams are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
2. **Roast to Perfection:** Spread the yams in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the yams are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
3. **Add Parmesan (Optional):** If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the yams during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This will create a golden and cheesy crust.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the yams from the oven and serve immediately. The aroma of herbs and garlic will fill your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Other Herbs:** Experiment with other herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram.
* **Spicy Kick:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle balsamic glaze over the roasted yams before serving for a tangy and sweet flavor.
* **Maple Syrup Drizzle:** For a touch of sweetness, drizzle a small amount of maple syrup over the yams after roasting.
**Recipe 3: Creamy Yam and Coconut Soup**
Looking for a unique and flavorful appetizer for your Thanksgiving feast? This creamy yam and coconut soup is sure to impress your guests. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and diced
* 4 cups vegetable broth
* 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
* 1 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Optional: Cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. **Add the Yams and Broth:** Add the diced yams and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the yams are tender.
3. **Blend the Soup:** Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
4. **Stir in Coconut Milk and Spices:** Return the soup to the pot. Stir in the coconut milk, ginger, and turmeric. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through gently, being careful not to boil.
5. **Serve and Garnish:** Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spicy Soup:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Lemongrass Infusion:** Add a stalk of lemongrass to the soup while simmering for a fragrant citrus flavor. Remove the lemongrass before blending.
* **Curry Powder:** Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder for a deeper, more complex flavor.
* **Gingerbread Spice:** For a Thanksgiving twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of gingerbread spice to the soup.
**Recipe 4: Yam and Apple Crumble**
Move over, pumpkin pie! This yam and apple crumble is a delightful and unexpected dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds. The combination of sweet yams, tart apples, and a buttery crumble topping is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Filling:**
* 2 pounds yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and diced
* 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons flour
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
* **For the Crumble Topping:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Filling:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the diced yams, sliced apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss to coat evenly. Dot with the cubed butter.
2. **Make the Crumble Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Assemble and Bake:** Pour the yam and apple filling into a 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the filling. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
4. **Cool and Serve:** Let the crumble cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Pecan Crumble:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the crumble topping for extra crunch and flavor.
* **Gingerbread Spice:** Add 1/2 teaspoon of gingerbread spice to the filling for a festive twist.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add the zest of one lemon to the filling for a bright citrus flavor.
* **Different Apples:** Use a variety of apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, for a more complex flavor.
**Recipe 5: Yam and Black Bean Burgers**
For a vegetarian Thanksgiving option or a delicious alternative to traditional turkey burgers, try these flavorful yam and black bean burgers. They’re packed with nutrients and perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 large yam (sweet potato), baked or steamed and mashed
* 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1 tablespoon chili powder
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking
* Burger buns and toppings of your choice
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Ingredients:** In a large bowl, mash the black beans with a fork or potato masher until slightly chunky. Add the mashed yam, cooked quinoa or brown rice, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
2. **Form the Burgers:** Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form into patties about 1 inch thick. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more quinoa or breadcrumbs.
3. **Cook the Burgers:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the yam and black bean burgers and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Be careful when flipping, as they can be delicate.
4. **Assemble and Serve:** Serve the burgers on burger buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spicy Burgers:** Add a chopped jalapeño pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Smoked Paprika:** Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **Corn Kernels:** Add 1/2 cup of corn kernels to the mixture for added texture and sweetness.
* **Binding Agent:** If the burgers are too crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs or flaxseed meal to help bind them together.
**Recipe 6: Honey-Glazed Yam Fries**
Swap out regular potato fries for these honey-glazed yam fries. They’re a healthier and more flavorful alternative that’s perfect as a side dish or snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 large yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cut into fry shapes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Yams:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the yam fries with olive oil, honey, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated.
2. **Bake to Crispy Perfection:** Spread the yam fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and crispy, flipping halfway through.
3. **Serve and Enjoy:** Remove the yam fries from the oven and serve immediately. They’re delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spicy Fries:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* **Cinnamon Sugar:** Sprinkle the yam fries with cinnamon sugar after baking for a sweet treat.
* **Rosemary and Garlic:** Substitute the paprika and garlic powder with chopped fresh rosemary and minced garlic for a savory flavor.
* **Air Fryer Option:** Cook the yam fries in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
**Recipe 7: Yam and Sausage Stuffing**
Give your traditional stuffing a delicious twist by adding yams and sausage. This savory and flavorful stuffing will be a hit at your Thanksgiving table.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 large yam (sweet potato), peeled and diced
* 8 cups cubed bread, preferably day-old
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1/2 cup dried cranberries
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 1 teaspoon dried sage
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 eggs, beaten
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the diced yam and cook for another 5 minutes.
2. **Combine the Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture, cubed bread, chicken broth, dried cranberries, chopped parsley, dried sage, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the beaten eggs and mix well to combine.
3. **Bake the Stuffing:** Transfer the stuffing to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and heated through.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spicy Sausage:** Use spicy Italian sausage for a spicier stuffing.
* **Apples:** Add diced apples to the stuffing for a touch of sweetness and tartness.
* **Nuts:** Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
* **Mushrooms:** Add sautéed mushrooms to the stuffing for a savory flavor.
**Recipe 8: Yam Soufflé**
A yam soufflé is an elegant and impressive dish that’s perfect for a special occasion like Thanksgiving. It’s light, airy, and full of flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 pounds yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cooked
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/4 cup flour
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 4 eggs, separated
* 1/4 cup sugar
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Base:** Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease a 2-quart soufflé dish. Mash the cooked yams until smooth. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the mashed yams, nutmeg, and salt. Let cool slightly.
2. **Separate and Beat Eggs:** Separate the eggs. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks until light. Gradually whisk the egg yolks into the yam mixture. In another clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.
3. **Fold and Bake:** Gently fold one-third of the beaten egg whites into the yam mixture to lighten it. Then, gently fold in the remaining egg whites. Pour the mixture into the prepared soufflé dish. Run your thumb around the inside rim of the dish to help the soufflé rise evenly.
4. **Bake and Serve:** Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown. Serve immediately. A soufflé deflates quickly, so it should be served straight from the oven.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Maple Syrup:** Swirl a tablespoon of maple syrup into the yam mixture before baking for a touch of extra sweetness.
* **Bourbon:** Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the yam mixture for a richer flavor.
* **Grated Cheese:** Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese on top before baking for a savory element.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the yam mixture for a spicy kick.
**Recipe 9: Slow Cooker Yam Casserole**
Simplify your Thanksgiving prep with this easy slow cooker yam casserole. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that frees up oven space and delivers a delicious side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 pounds yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and cubed
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup maple syrup
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup mini marshmallows
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cubed yams, melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
2. **Slow Cook:** Transfer the yam mixture to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the yams are tender.
3. **Add Marshmallows:** During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mini marshmallows over the top of the casserole.
4. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve warm directly from the slow cooker.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Pecan Topping:** Mix 1/2 cup of chopped pecans with 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole during the last 30 minutes of cooking instead of marshmallows.
* **Orange Juice:** Add 1/4 cup of orange juice to the yam mixture for a brighter flavor.
* **Bourbon:** Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon to the yam mixture for a boozy twist.
* **Gingerbread Spice:** Substitute the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger with 1 teaspoon of gingerbread spice.
**Recipe 10: Yam and Goat Cheese Tartlets**
These elegant yam and goat cheese tartlets are the perfect appetizer for a sophisticated Thanksgiving gathering. The combination of sweet yams, tangy goat cheese, and flaky pastry is simply divine.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sheet (14.1 oz) frozen puff pastry, thawed
* 1 pound yams (sweet potatoes), peeled and diced
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
* 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
* Honey, for drizzling (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Yams:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the diced yams with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. **Prepare the Puff Pastry:** While the yams are roasting, unfold the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut into 12 squares. Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. **Assemble the Tartlets:** Top each puff pastry square with roasted yams and crumbled goat cheese. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, if desired.
4. **Bake and Serve:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the goat cheese is slightly melted. Drizzle with honey, if desired. Serve warm.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Caramelized Onions:** Add caramelized onions to the tartlets for a savory-sweet flavor combination.
* **Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle balsamic glaze over the tartlets after baking for a tangy and sweet finish.
* **Prosciutto:** Add crispy prosciutto to the tartlets for a salty and savory element.
* **Different Cheese:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or brie.
**Conclusion:**
These ten yam recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and textures, proving that yams are much more than just a sugary side dish. From classic candied yams with a modern twist to savory roasted yams and elegant yam soufflés, there’s a yam recipe to suit every taste and occasion. So, this Thanksgiving, elevate your feast with these delicious and easy-to-follow recipes and let yams shine on your holiday table!
**Enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!**