When it comes to holiday dinners, there is often confusion between candied yams and candied sweet potatoes. While many recipes use these terms interchangeably, yams and sweet potatoes are actually two distinct vegetables. Understanding the differences between these ingredients can help you better appreciate their unique flavors, especially in classic dishes like candied yams. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between yams and sweet potatoes, and provide a comparison of how they are used in candied recipes.

For more ideas on sweet holiday dishes, explore this recipe collection.

What Are Yams?

Yams are native to Africa and parts of Asia. True yams are much starchier and drier than sweet potatoes, with thick, rough skin and white or purple flesh. Unlike sweet potatoes, which have a creamy and sweet flavor, yams are more neutral and tend to be used in savory dishes.

For those interested in other ways to balance starch and sweetness, check out this creative twist on a sweet loaf: Pumpkin Banana Loaf.

Common Uses for Yams

• Savory dishes: Yams are often used in soups, stews, and savory side dishes.
• Fried or roasted: They hold up well when fried or roasted due to their dense texture.

What Are Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are far more common in the U.S. and are native to Central and South America. Sweet potatoes have a thinner, reddish-brown skin and orange flesh that becomes soft and creamy when cooked. Their naturally sweet flavor makes them ideal for dishes like candied sweet potatoes.

Want to explore more versatile sweet dishes? Try other classics like this recipe for Earl Grey Cookies.

Common Uses for Sweet Potatoes

• Sweet dishes: Sweet potatoes are frequently used in desserts, casseroles, and candied recipes.
• Roasted, mashed, or baked: Their natural sweetness makes them perfect for roasting or baking with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Key Differences Between Candied Yams and Candied Sweet Potatoes

Visual Differences

• Yams: Thick, rough skin with white or purple flesh.
• Sweet Potatoes: Thin, reddish-brown skin with orange flesh.

Flavor and Texture

• Yams: Starchier and denser with a more neutral taste.
• Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet, becoming soft and creamy when cooked.

Cooking Techniques

• Yams: Usually take longer to cook and are often boiled or steamed.
• Sweet Potatoes: Bake or roast more easily due to their higher sugar content.

For more recipe inspiration, check out this list of easy dessert recipes that pairs well with candied sweet potatoes.

Why Are Sweet Potatoes Labeled as Yams?

In the U.S., the confusion between yams and sweet potatoes originates from historical labeling practices. When the orange-fleshed sweet potato was introduced to the market, it was labeled as a “yam” to distinguish it from firmer, white-fleshed varieties. This label has persisted in grocery stores, even though most “yams” in U.S. supermarkets are actually sweet potatoes.

How to Identify Yams and Sweet Potatoes in the Store

• Yams: Look for rough, dark skin and white flesh.
• Sweet Potatoes: Look for smoother, reddish-brown skin and orange flesh inside.

Recipe Comparison: Candied Yams vs. Candied Sweet Potatoes

Candied Yams Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large yams
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Peel and Slice Yams: Cut the yams into thick slices and set aside.
2. Prepare the Glaze: In a saucepan, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves into a syrup.
3. Bake: Arrange the yam slices in a baking dish, pour the syrup over them, and bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until tender.

Candied Sweet Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup water
• Optional: marshmallows for topping

Instructions:

1. Peel and Slice Sweet Potatoes: Cut the sweet potatoes into thick rounds.
2. Prepare the Glaze: Melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water to create a syrup.
3. Bake: Place the sweet potato slices in a baking dish, cover with syrup, and bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes. If you prefer, top with marshmallows in the final 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs About Yams and Sweet Potatoes

Are Yams and Sweet Potatoes the Same Thing?

No, yams and sweet potatoes are different vegetables. Yams are starchier and drier, while sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and creamy.

Can I Substitute Sweet Potatoes for Yams in Candied Recipes?

Yes! In most U.S. candied recipes, what’s labeled as candied yams is actually made with sweet potatoes.

Why Are Sweet Potatoes Labeled as Yams in the U.S.?

This is due to historical marketing practices to differentiate between various types of sweet potatoes.

Which Is Healthier, Yams or Sweet Potatoes?

Both vegetables offer health benefits. Sweet potatoes are higher in beta-carotene, while yams are a good source of potassium and fiber.

Conclusion

Although candied yams and candied sweet potatoes are often used interchangeably, understanding their differences will help you better appreciate each vegetable’s unique flavor and texture. Whether you’re making a savory dish with yams or a sweet holiday dish with sweet potatoes, both can be delicious in their own right. For more holiday recipe inspiration, check out this Candied Yams Recipe.