Prep Time: 1 Hour
Yields: 6-8 Servings

Comment:
Most holiday yam recipes contain numerous spices and a marshmallow topping. However, this version is simple and delicious. Although it may seem that so few ingredients might create a lackluster dish, think again. It's magnificent! For a more interesting presentation, consider using different varieties of sweet potatoes and Louisiana yams.

Ingredients:
8 Louisiana yams
¼ pound butter
1 cup sugar
1 tbsp vanilla
4–5 whole cloves
pinch nutmeg

Method:
Choose 8 yams of identical size, guaranteeing that they will cook in about the same time. NOTE: I prefer smaller yams for this recipe. Peel yams and place in a large stainless steel pot with enough water to cover the yams by approximately one inch. Bring to a rolling boil, reduce to simmer and cover. Cook until yams are fork-tender, approximately 30 minutes. When tender, there should be no more than ½-inch of water remaining in the bottom of the pot. Pour off any excess water. Stir in butter, sugar, vanilla, cloves and nutmeg then continue to simmer until sugar is dissolved and a simple syrup is achieved. Simmer over low heat until yams have absorbed most of the simple syrup but are not falling apart. Do not overcook. Serve one yam per guest with an equal serving of the simple syrup.