Yams with Ginger and Scallions
Credit: Larry Nighswander
4 large yams (3 1⁄2–4 lbs.), peeled and
cut into thick rounds
Kosher salt, to taste
6 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
16 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
8 large shallots, thinly sliced
8 scallions, cut crosswise into 1" pieces
4 jalapeños, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced
1 5" piece ginger, peeled and cut into
paper-thin matchsticks
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 lightly packed cups basil leaves, coarsely chopped
6 tbsp. fresh lime juice
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add yams and cook until tender, 8–10 minutes. Drain yams in a colander and transfer to a large shallow serving dish. Return pot to the stovetop.
2. Heat oil in the pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, shallots, scallions, jalapeños, ginger, and salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until fragrant, 1–2 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until ginger has softened, 15–20 minutes.
3. Stir the basil into the ginger mixture; cook, uncovered, until basil has softened and released its fragrance (but not lost its bright color), about 30 seconds. Spoon the ginger–basil mixture over the yams. Season with salt and pepper. Right before serving, drizzle the lime juice over the top.
SERVES 8
I made this for a dinner at the homeless shelter where I volunteer. There were no leftovers, just many thank yous from people who get so few special treats.