15+ Yam Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

Yams are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can enhance many meals. They can be prepared in various ways, making them a favorite in kitchens around the world. Discover how easy it is to create flavorful dishes that highlight the natural sweetness and texture of yams.

Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a unique main course, there are plenty of yam recipes to explore. From candied options to roasted varieties, you’ll find something for every taste. Get ready to unlock the full potential of yams in your cooking!

1) Classic Southern Candied Yams

Classic Southern candied yams are a delicious side dish, perfect for any meal. They are made with sweet potatoes that cook in a sweet syrup, creating a warm and comforting flavor. To make them, you’ll use ingredients like butter, brown sugar, and spices. The sweet aroma fills your kitchen as you cook them. They’re soft, sweet, and just right for holidays or family gatherings. Everyone will love the rich, melted texture and taste.

Ingredients

• 4 large sweet potatoes
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup water

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and slice the sweet potatoes into rounds.
3. In a pot, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water.
5. Stir until mixed and smooth.
6. Place sweet potatoes in a baking dish and pour the mixture over them.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.

2) Spicy Roasted Yam Fries

Spicy roasted yam fries are a delicious snack or side dish. They are easy to make and perfect for any meal. You will love their crispiness and flavor.

Start by cutting yams into thin fries. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil and your favorite spices. Chili powder and cayenne pepper add some nice heat. Next, spread the fries out on a baking sheet. Make sure they are not crowded. Bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 large yams
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the yams into thin fries.
3. Toss yams with olive oil and spices in a bowl.
4. Spread fries on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3) Yam and Ginger Soup

Yam and ginger soup is a warm and comforting dish. The creamy texture of yams combines well with the zing of fresh ginger. This soup is perfect for chilly days when you need something nourishing.

To start, peel and chop the yams into cubes. Then, sauté garlic and ginger until they smell fragrant. After that, add the chopped yams and vegetable broth to the pot. Simmer the mixture until the yams are tender. Finally, blend everything until smooth for a silky texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Ingredients

• 2 cups yams, peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté garlic and ginger for 2 minutes.
3. Add yams and vegetable broth.
4. Cook until yams are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

4) Maple-Glazed Yams

Maple-glazed yams are a delightful side dish that brings sweetness to any meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make them. The combination of yams and maple syrup creates a tasty treat.

To prepare, start by peeling and cutting your yams into cubes. This helps them cook evenly and soak up the delicious glaze. In a bowl, mix melted butter, maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon. Pour this mixture over the yams in a baking dish. Toss well to coat every piece.

Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through for even cooking. Your yams will turn tender and caramelized.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds yams
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and cube the yams.
3. In a bowl, mix butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
4. Toss the yams with the mixture in a baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

5) Sweet Potato and Yam Casserole

Sweet potato and yam casserole is a delicious side dish for any meal. It combines the natural sweetness of yams with creamy textures and a crunchy topping. This dish is perfect for holidays or family gatherings.

To make it, start by mashing the cooked yams and sweet potatoes. You can use canned yams for convenience. Add butter, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon for extra flavor. Top the mixture with marshmallows or a pecan streusel. Bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown and bubbly.

Ingredients

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
• 2 cups canned yams, drained
• ½ cup butter, melted
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup marshmallows or pecans for topping

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mash the sweet potatoes and yams in a bowl.
3. Stir in melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
4. Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
5. Top with marshmallows or pecans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.

6) Yams with Marshmallow Topping

Yams with marshmallow topping are a sweet treat that adds a special touch to any meal. They are easy to make and loved by many, especially during holidays.

To start, you will need fresh yams, butter, brown sugar, and marshmallows. You can use canned yams for a quicker option as well. This dish combines the natural sweetness of yams with creamy marshmallows on top.

Bake your yams at 375°F (190°C) until they are soft. Once baked, add your marshmallows on top and return them to the oven. This will toast the marshmallows and create a delicious, gooey topping.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ pounds yams
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups brown sugar
• 3 cups marshmallows

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash, peel, and slice the yams.
3. Place yams in a baking dish and add butter and brown sugar.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes until soft.
5. Top with marshmallows and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden.

7) Yam and Black Bean Tacos

Yam and black bean tacos are a tasty and healthy option for lunch or dinner. The sweetness of the yams pairs perfectly with the savory black beans. You can make these tacos quickly and easily.

To start, roast the yams in the oven until they are soft. While the yams are cooking, heat up the black beans with your favorite spices. When everything is ready, warm up your tortillas. Fill each tortilla with a mix of yams and black beans. You can add toppings like avocado, salsa, or cilantro for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 medium yams
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 4 tortillas
• Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, cilantro

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the yams.
3. Roast the yams in the oven for about 25 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, heat the black beans in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Add chili powder and cumin to the black beans.
6. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan.
7. Assemble the tacos with yams, black beans, and toppings of your choice. Enjoy!

8) Yam and Chickpea Salad

This yam and chickpea salad is colorful and full of flavor. You’ll enjoy the sweet taste of yams mixed with hearty chickpeas. This dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Start with roasted yams, which add a nice sweetness. Combine them with canned or cooked chickpeas for protein. Toss in some fresh greens, like spinach or arugula, for added nutrients. Dress the salad with lemon juice and olive oil. You can also add spices like cumin for extra flavor. This salad is perfect for lunch or as a side dish.

Ingredients

• 2 medium yams, peeled and diced
• 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach or arugula
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Cumin or your favorite spices

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the diced yams for about 20-25 minutes until tender.
3. In a bowl, combine the roasted yams, chickpeas, and greens.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Toss well to combine. Enjoy!

9) Brown Sugar-Cinnamon Yams

Brown sugar-cinnamon yams are a delicious and sweet side dish. They make a great addition to any meal. You’ll love the combination of flavors in this recipe.

To prepare, start by peeling and cutting yams into small cubes. Then, toss them with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. The butter adds richness, while the brown sugar and cinnamon create a warm, sweet flavor.

Roast the yams in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Stir halfway through for even cooking. Once they are tender and slightly caramelized, they are ready to serve.

Ingredients

• 2 large yams
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 4 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cube the yams.
3. In a bowl, mix yams with melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
4. Spread yams on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender.

10) Garlic Herb Roasted Yams

Garlic Herb Roasted Yams are a tasty and easy side dish. The sweetness of the yams pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and chop the yams into even pieces for consistent cooking. Then, toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.

Spread the yams on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until they are golden and tender.

These yams make a great addition to your dinner table and are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 large yams
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel and chop the yams into even pieces.
3. In a bowl, toss yams with olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread yams on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes until golden and tender.

11) Yam and Quinoa Power Bowl

A Yam and Quinoa Power Bowl is a delicious and healthy meal option. It’s packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. You will love how easy it is to prepare.

Start by roasting yams until they are tender. Then, cook quinoa according to package instructions and fluff with a fork. Combine both ingredients in a large bowl.

Add your favorite greens, such as spinach or arugula, for freshness. You can also mix in some beans for extra protein. Finally, drizzle with a light vinaigrette for added flavor.

This bowl is not only tasty but also very customizable. You can add toppings like nuts, seeds, or avocado to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 2 yams, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 cups spinach or arugula
• 1 can black beans, rinsed
• Vinaigrette of your choice

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast yams for 25-30 minutes until tender.
3. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth or water as per package directions.
4. In a bowl, combine roasted yams, cooked quinoa, greens, and black beans.
5. Drizzle with vinaigrette and mix well. Enjoy your bowl!

12) Yam Curry with Coconut Milk

Yam curry with coconut milk is a warm and comforting dish. The creamy coconut milk pairs perfectly with the sweet flavor of yams. This dish is simple and delicious.

To start, chop the yams into cubes. Then, sauté onions and garlic in a pot until they are soft. Next, add the yams, spices, and coconut milk.

Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook until the yams are tender. You can add other vegetables like spinach or chickpeas for extra nutrition.

This curry is great served over rice or with flatbread.

Ingredients

• 2 cups yams, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: spinach or chickpeas

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat a pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
3. Add yams and curry powder.
4. Pour in the coconut milk.
5. Simmer until yams are tender, about 20 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm over rice or with flatbread.

13) Yam and Kale Stir Fry

This yam and kale stir fry is a quick and tasty dish. It’s packed with nutrients and flavors. You’ll enjoy the combination of sweet yams and earthy kale.

Start by peeling and chopping your yams. Cut them into small cubes for even cooking. Next, wash and chop the kale into bite-sized pieces.

Heat a pan over medium heat. Then, add a bit of oil and toss in the yams. Stir them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Now, add the kale and any spices you like, such as garlic or chili flakes. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes.

Your dish is ready to serve hot!

Ingredients

• 2 medium yams, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups kale, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and cube the yams.
2. Wash and chop the kale.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Add yams and stir for 5 minutes.
5. Add kale and garlic, then cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

14) Pecan-Crusted Yams

Pecan-crusted yams are a delicious side dish that will impress your family and friends. The sweet yams balance perfectly with the crunchy pecan topping.

To make this dish, start by baking or boiling your yams until they are tender. Once cooked, mash them lightly and spread into a baking dish.

In a separate bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. Then, sprinkle this mixture over the yams.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes until the topping is golden brown.

These yams make a wonderful addition to any meal, especially during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• Yams
• Pecans
• Brown sugar
• Butter
• Cinnamon

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the yams until tender.
3. Mash the yams and place them in a baking dish.
4. In a bowl, mix pecans, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon.
5. Sprinkle the pecan mixture over the yams.
6. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown.

15) Lemon-Rosemary Yam Wedges

Lemon-rosemary yam wedges are a tasty and easy side dish. The zesty lemon juice and fragrant rosemary bring out the natural sweetness of the yams.

To make these wedges, start by cutting your yams into thick slices. Then, toss them with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh rosemary for flavor.

You can season them with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, roast the wedges in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes. They will be crispy on the outside and soft inside.

Enjoy these wedges alongside grilled chicken or fish for a delightful meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs yams
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut yams into thick wedges.
3. In a bowl, toss yams with olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the wedges on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Turn halfway through roasting.