Candied Sweet Potatoes: A Soulful Glazed Twist

Few dishes evoke the comforting warmth of home-cooked soul food quite like a plate of glazed sweet potatoes.

This recipe, lovingly dubbed “Sweet Potato Bliss,” transforms humble sweet potatoes into a show-stopping side dish. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory notes—accented by a gentle hint of rum extract—the dish carries you on a nostalgic journey that celebrates both tradition and creativity. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply craving a soulful treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

In our urban culinary landscape, where rich cultural traditions meet modern twists, Sweet Potato Bliss stands out as a testament to the ingenuity of Black food culture. The sweet potatoes, tender and infused with a luscious glaze, are a tribute to the deep-rooted flavors of the South. Each bite is a reminder of the stories, celebrations, and shared memories that bring us together around the dinner table. Get ready to experience a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul.

Ingredients (Things You Need)

• 4–5 large sweet potatoes
• 1 1/2 stick of unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1 cup of white sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
• A few dashes of rum extract
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch (optional)

These ingredients come together to create a sauce that is both glossy and aromatic, ensuring each sweet potato slice is generously coated with flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into even, circular slices. This uniformity is key—it ensures that each slice cooks evenly and soaks up the luscious glaze. After slicing, give the yams a quick rinse and set them aside. Taking this initial step with care will pay off in the final texture and taste of your dish.

Step 2: Preheat and Ready Your Pan

Turn your stove to low heat as you get your pan ready. A steady, low heat is crucial for melting the sugars properly and allowing the flavors to meld together without burning. It’s all about setting the stage for the magic that’s about to happen in your kitchen.

Step 3: Create the Glaze Base

In the preheated pan, add the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes a smooth, blended sauce. This process not only dissolves the sugars but also allows the butter to infuse the base with its rich, creamy texture. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this step is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Step 4: Incorporate the Spices and Extracts

Once your sugar and butter mixture is perfectly blended, add in the spices and extracts. This includes the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, salt, vanilla extract, and those essential dashes of rum extract that elevate the flavor profile. Pour in the orange juice and stir well to combine everything into a fragrant, bubbling glaze. The interplay of spices with the citrus and a hint of rum creates a beautifully balanced sauce that is both sweet and subtly spiced.

Step 5: Coat the Sweet Potatoes

Gently add your pre-prepared sweet potato circles into the pan. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the glaze. The goal here is to have every slice enveloped in that rich, aromatic sauce. Take your time with this step—using a spatula can help in gently mixing the potatoes without breaking their delicate form.

Step 6: Cook to Perfection

Once the potatoes are uniformly coated, cover the pan with a lid. However, leave a small opening to allow steam to escape and help the sugars melt correctly. Cook on medium-low heat for about 25 minutes. Throughout this time, gently mix the potatoes periodically. This careful stirring ensures that every slice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors, while keeping the potatoes intact. A fork should easily slide through a yam when they are perfectly done.

Step 7: Finishing Touches and Optional Thickening

If you prefer a slightly thicker glaze, you can stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch at this stage. This step is optional but recommended if you enjoy a more pronounced, syrupy finish on your sweet potatoes. Continue to cook for an additional couple of minutes, allowing the cornstarch to activate and further bind the flavors.

Step 8: Serve and Savor

Once your sweet potatoes are tender and perfectly glazed, remove them from the heat. Plate your Sweet Potato Bliss and serve it hot as a delightful side dish. The finished product should be a vibrant medley of golden sweet potato slices, bathed in a glossy, richly spiced sauce that tantalizes both the eyes and the palate.

Pro Tips

Sweet Potato Bliss is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of the bold and beautiful flavors that define our culinary heritage. One of the secrets to making this recipe shine is patience. Allowing the sugars and spices to meld slowly creates a depth of flavor that can’t be rushed. Remember to stir gently with a spatula; this ensures that the sweet potatoes remain intact, preserving their shape and texture while fully absorbing the sweet, spiced glaze.

Another pro tip is to experiment with your presentation. While the recipe is designed to be straightforward, a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or a drizzle of extra orange juice can add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. This subtle garnish not only enhances the flavor but also makes the presentation pop—a perfect finishing touch for impressing guests at your next dinner party or family gathering.

About the Creator

This recipe is proudly brought to you by Corrine Rossum a culinary artist dedicated to celebrating the rich and diverse flavors of Black food culture. With years of experience blending traditional recipes with modern twists, Corrine’s creations are both a homage to heritage and an invitation to explore new culinary horizons. Her approach is all about infusing each dish with love, creativity, and a touch of soul—making every meal an experience to remember. For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit follow her on Instagram @iamcorrinechristina.

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