Dulces de Camote (Candied Sweet Potato)

Candied Sweet Potatoes, or Dulces de Camote, are a traditional Mexican treat, beloved for their deep, sweet flavors and rich syrupy coating. This confection is enjoyed as a sweet snack or dessert and is made using simple ingredients that truly celebrate the essence of Mexican candied fruits.

Ingredients

🍠 3 medium sweet potatoes
💧 2 liters water
🍬 4 cups sugar (or 2 cups sugar and 2 cups piloncillo)
🌿 1 stick of cinnamon
⭐ 2 star anise (optional)
⚗️ 1 teaspoon calcium hydroxide (optional, also known as pickling lime)

Instructions

1- Prepare the Calcium Hydroxide Solution (Optional):

• In a large bowl, mix 2 liters of water with 1 teaspoon of calcium hydroxide. Stir until it is fully dissolved. This solution will help to firm up the sweet potatoes and maintain their shape during cooking.

2- Soak the Sweet Potatoes:

• Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into thick slices or cubes. Place them in the calcium hydroxide solution, ensuring that they are fully submerged. Let them soak for 1-2 hours. This step is optional but recommended for better texture.

3- Rinse and Prepare Syrup:

• After soaking, rinse the sweet potatoes thoroughly in cold water to remove any excess calcium.
• In a large pot, combine 4 cups of sugar (or half sugar and half piloncillo) with 2 liters of fresh water. Add the cinnamon stick and star anise.

4- Cook the Sweet Potatoes:

• Add the rinsed sweet potatoes to the pot with the sugar mixture. Stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat. Let it simmer uncovered for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The goal is to allow the sweet potatoes to absorb the syrup as it reduces.

5- Thicken the Syrup:

• Continue cooking until the syrup is thick and glossy, and the sweet potatoes are fully candied and translucent.

6- Cool and Serve:

• Once cooked, remove from the heat and let the candied sweet potatoes cool. They are usually served at room temperature or slightly warm.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes to 3 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Equipment:

• Large bowl
• Large pot
• Stirring spoon

Cooking Tips:

• Piloncillo is a traditional Mexican unrefined whole cane sugar, providing a deeper flavor. Adjust the mix of piloncillo and sugar according to your taste.
• Be patient with the simmering process to achieve the perfect syrup consistency without burning.

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Dulces de Camote (Candied Sweet Potato)