Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans

Maple-glazed yams with Turkey Bacon and toasted pecans create a delightful harmony of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors. This Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests. The unique combination of ingredients transforms simple sweet potatoes into a standout side dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Balanced Flavors: The blend of maple syrup, spices, and Turkey Bacon creates a savory-sweet experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Nutritious Side Dish: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish both tasty and healthy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side for any meal, it pairs well with meats like turkey or chicken and complements various cuisines.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The familiar flavors combined with a twist will have everyone asking for seconds!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the Turkey Bacon evenly while allowing enough space for the yams to cook without overcrowding.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the crispy Turkey Bacon from the skillet without excess grease, ensuring a crunchy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients for the perfect balance of flavors in your glaze.

Ingredients

Maple-glazed yams with Turkey Bacon and toasted pecans offer a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors.

Ingredients:
– 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 slices Turkey Bacon, chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add chopped Turkey Bacon and stir often until golden brown and crisp.
• Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked bacon to paper towels to drain excess fat. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Create the Glaze

• Melt unsalted butter into the reserved Turkey Bacon fat over medium heat.
• Add brown sugar, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
• Stir until sugar dissolves completely; simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

• Add peeled and diced sweet potatoes to the skillet with the glaze.
• Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
• Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir occasionally until fork-tender and caramelized.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Stir in crispy Turkey Bacon and chopped pecans.
• Cook gently for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through.

Step 5: Serve

• Transfer your Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans to a serving dish.
• Serve warm as an irresistible side that complements any meal!

How to Serve Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans

Serving Savory Candied Yams with Turkey Bacon and Pecans can elevate any meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses and adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to your plate.

Family Gatherings

• Serve warm as a side dish during family dinners or holiday gatherings, complementing roasted meats and festive dishes.

Brunch Buffets

• Include these yams in a brunch spread alongside other sweet and savory options, creating a well-rounded buffet.

Potluck Events

• Bring this dish to potlucks; it’s sure to impress guests with its unique flavors and is easy to transport.

Weeknight Dinners

• Pair with grilled chicken or turkey for a quick weeknight meal that satisfies the whole family.

Meal Prep

• Use as part of your meal prep for the week. The flavors deepen as they sit, making them even tastier when reheated.

How to Perfect Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans

To achieve the best results with your Savory Candied Yams, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Select the right sweet potatoes: Choose firm, unblemished sweet potatoes for the best taste and texture.
• Cook bacon until crispy: Ensure Turkey Bacon is cooked until it’s crispy for added crunch in every bite.
• Don’t skip the spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg are key players in balancing sweetness; don’t overlook them!
• Stir occasionally: While cooking the sweet potatoes, stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
• Top before serving: Add additional chopped pecans just before serving for an extra layer of crunch.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify brown sugar or maple syrup amounts based on your sweetness preference.

Best Side Dishes for Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans

Pairing side dishes with your Savory Candied Yams can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a savory contrast that complements the sweetness of yams.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add richness that balances the texture of candied yams.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a fresh crunch that pairs well with yams.
4. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots echo the flavor profile of yams while adding vibrant color to your table.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Lightly sweet cornbread brings a comforting element that works harmoniously with this dish.
6. Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed in vinaigrette provides freshness and acidity to cut through the richness of yams.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using raw sweet potatoes: Make sure the sweet potatoes are peeled and diced before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the glaze better.
• Overcooking Turkey Bacon: Turkey Bacon can become too crispy if cooked too long. Cook it just until golden to retain some chewiness and flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget salt and pepper! These enhance the flavors of the yams, Turkey Bacon, and pecans. Taste as you go to get it just right.
• Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the butter and sugar mixture to simmer is crucial. This thickens the glaze, making it stick to your sweet potatoes beautifully.
• Not stirring enough: Stirring occasionally helps prevent the sweet potatoes from sticking to the skillet and ensures even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans

• You can freeze them in a freezer-safe container.
• They will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place yams in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot. Stir halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans.

How do I make Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup used in the recipe. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! You can substitute with walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.

What can I serve with Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans?

These yams pair well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a holiday spread alongside other sides.

Can I prepare these yams ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the yams up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Savory Candied Yams Turkey Bacon Pecans are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any table setting. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or nuts. Give it a try at your next gathering!