| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 6g | 1g | 24g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 4g | 2g | 0.15g |
When it comes to comfort food with a touch of nostalgia and a burst of flavor, Spiced Yam Wedges hit all the right notes for me. Growing up with the vibrancy of West African spices and the soulful embrace of Southern cooking, this dish melds those influences into something truly special. It’s more than just food; it’s a memory lane for the taste buds.
A Perfect Balance of Sweet and Spicy
What I love most about these Spiced Yam Wedges is the ideal balance between sweet and spicy. The natural sweetness of yams is enhanced with a drizzle of maple syrup and a hint of vanilla extract. But where it really shines is the symphony of spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves—all adding layers of warmth that wrap around you like a cozy blanket.
Health Benefits Galore
Beyond the sheer deliciousness, let’s talk about the health perks. Yams are a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and potassium. They’re also packed with fiber, making them a great choice for digestive health. Then there’s the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and cinnamon, making this dish a treat that’s both tasty and good for you.
These Spiced Yam Wedges are versatile enough to stand alone or complement other dishes. They pair beautifully with a hearty protein like roasted chicken or grilled fish, and they’re a stellar side dish for a holiday feast, much like candied yams but with a unique twist.
For more about the benefits of yam, check out this article from Medical News Today. Or if you’re keen to explore the versatility of spices like ginger and cinnamon, a piece on Healthline dives deep into their health benefits.
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh mint if you’re feeling extra fancy—it adds a refreshing contrast to the cozy spices and sweetness. Whether you’re a fan of traditional candied yams or looking to try something new, this recipe is a must-try for your culinary repertoire.
What You’ll Need
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step Two
Peel the yams, then cut them into evenly-sized wedges, about 1/2 inch thick.
Step Three
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground cloves, and sea salt. Mix well to create a spiced oil mixture.
Step Four
Add the yam wedges to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each wedge is evenly coated with the spiced oil mixture.
Step Five
Spread the spiced yam wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping.
Step Six
Roast the yam wedges in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
Step Seven
While the yams are roasting, combine the maple syrup and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
Step Eight
Remove the yams from the oven once done and immediately drizzle the maple syrup and vanilla mixture over them. Toss gently to coat.
Step Nine
Transfer the spiced yam wedges to a serving dish. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh mint.
Step Ten
Serve warm and enjoy!
