Are you looking for new ways to incorporate yams into your meals? With their sweet, nutty flavor and versatility in cooking methods, it’s no wonder why yams are a popular ingredient in many cuisines. From classic side dishes to innovative main courses, we’ve got you covered with these 18 delicious yam recipes perfect for every occasion.
Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and exotic, our collection of yam recipes has got it all. Start your culinary journey by exploring the sweet and savory world of yams!
Roasted Garlic Mashed Yams
Roasted Garlic Mashed Yams Recipe
Experience the warm comfort of roasted garlic infused into creamy mashed yams. This side dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, separated
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss yams with a pinch of salt and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, spread garlic cloves on a piece of foil, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap loosely. Roast alongside yams for the same amount of time, or until soft and mashed.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted yams, roasted garlic, butter, and cream. Mash until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Yam Soup
A sweet and savory soup that combines the natural sweetness of yams with the depth of caramelized onions, perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss yams with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Combine roasted yams, caramelized onions, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using) in a blender or pot.
5. Purée soup until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Yam Fries
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these addictive Spicy Cajun Yam Fries! Sweet potatoes get a bold makeover with the addition of Cajun seasonings and crispy texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: additional toppings like grated cheddar cheese or crumbled bacon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the sweet potatoes into long, thin strips.
3. In a bowl, mix together vegetable oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Add the sweet potato strips to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer.
6. Sprinkle salt to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Baked Yams
Sweet and savory, these Honey Glazed Baked Yams are a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion. With the natural sweetness of yams paired with the richness of honey, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large yams
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the yams clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. In a small bowl, mix together honey, olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the yams on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the honey glaze all over them.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut Milk Yam Curry
This creamy curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices and the natural sweetness of yams, elevated by the richness of coconut milk. Serve it over rice or with naan bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened.
2. Add yams, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until yams are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
5. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Cinnamon Roasted Yams
Sweet and savory, these roasted yams are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of maple syrup, making them a perfect side dish for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss yam cubes with maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toss again to combine.
4. Spread the yams in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yam and Black Bean Tacos
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of yams with the earthy flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a vegetarian or vegan meal option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 taco shells
– Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss yams with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add black beans to the skillet; stir in cumin. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning yam mixture into shells, followed by black bean mixture. Top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Peanut Yam Noodles
A creamy and spicy Thai-inspired noodle dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful lunch. This recipe combines the flavors of peanut sauce, yam noodles, and crunchy vegetables in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz yam noodles
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook yam noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 2-3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, and ginger.
5. Add the peanut sauce to the wok or skillet; stir-fry until combined with vegetables and noodles.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled Yam and Pineapple Skewers
Elevate your barbecue game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the natural sweetness of yams and pineapples with a hint of smokiness from the grill. Perfect for a summer gathering or potluck, these colorful skewers are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger. Add yam and pineapple cubes; toss to coat.
3. Thread 3-4 pieces of yam and pineapple onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until yams are tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rosemary Parmesan Yam Chips
Rosemary Parmesan Yam Chips: A Savory Twist on a Classic Snack!
These crispy yam chips are infused with the aromatic flavors of rosemary and parmesan cheese, making them a unique and delicious snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large yams
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the yams into thin rounds, removing any eyes or blemishes.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and salt.
4. Add the yam slices to the bowl and toss to coat with the rosemary mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the yam slices in a single layer.
6. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the yams.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Yam Wedges
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of yams with a smoky paprika kick. Perfect for a quick appetizer or side dish, these crispy wedges are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the yams into 1-inch wedges.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the yam wedges to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the yam wedges in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caribbean Spiced Yam Stew
Caribbean Spiced Yam Stew: A hearty and aromatic stew that combines the natural sweetness of yams with the bold flavors of the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, chopped (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the yams, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the yams are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yam and Kale Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your snack game with this nutritious and flavorful recipe. Sweet potatoes are filled with a savory mixture of roasted yams, kale, and spices for a delicious and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 2 medium yams, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until soft.
3. Toss yams with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, sauté kale, onion, and garlic until the greens are wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, slice them in half lengthwise and fill each with the yam-kale mixture. Top with feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Crispy Yam and Bacon Hash
Get ready to elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this sweet and savory crispy yam and bacon hash. A perfect combination of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss yams with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread yams on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until yams are tender and caramelized.
6. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
7. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
8. Combine roasted yams and cooked bacon mixture in a bowl.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chipotle Lime Yam Dip
Elevate your snack game with this unique and delicious Chipotle Lime Yam Dip! This creamy, smoky, and tangy dip is perfect for veggie lovers and adventurous eaters alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mashed yams, Greek yogurt, lime juice, chipotle peppers, and garlic. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare the ingredients and mix together.
Enjoy your delicious Chipotle Lime Yam Dip!
Savory Yam and Sausage Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the natural sweetness of yams with the savory flavor of sausage, making it a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Arrange the yam slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the cooked sausage mixture over the yams.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and heavy cream. Pour the mixture over the casserole.
7. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the yams are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Yam and Chickpea Buddha Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines the natural sweetness of yams with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, perfect for a nutritious and filling meal. A simple yet satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss yams with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
5. To assemble the bowls, place roasted yams at the bottom, followed by the chickpea mixture, and garnish with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Brown Sugar Pecan Yam Bake
This Brown Sugar Pecan Yam Bake is a delicious twist on traditional yam dishes, combining the natural sweetness of yams with the crunch of pecans and the warmth of brown sugar. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yams, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Toss until yams are evenly coated.
3. Spread yam mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle pecans over the yams.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the pecans.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until yams are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the delicious world of yams! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipe ideas for every occasion. From comforting sides like Roasted Garlic Mashed Yams and Honey Glazed Baked Yams, to exciting main dishes like Coconut Milk Yam Curry and Thai Peanut Yam Noodles, there’s something for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the sweet treats like Maple Cinnamon Roasted Yams and Brown Sugar Pecan Yam Bake. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping dish, these yam recipes are sure to delight.
