how long to bake yams at 400

Okay, the user is asking how long to bake yams at 400 degrees. Hmm, they probably want to cook yams in the oven. I should confirm whether they’re using Fahrenheit since ovens are commonly set that way.

First, I need to think about the size of the yams because that affects the cooking time. Are they small, medium, or large? Each size will have a different baking duration.

I should also consider preparation steps. Do they know to poke the yams with a fork to let steam escape? And wrapping them in foil might help with even cooking.

Maybe I’ll break it down by size. For small yams, around 45-60 minutes, medium ones take 60-75 minutes, and large ones might need 75-90 minutes. I should mention that the internal temperature should reach 205°F to 210°F for doneness.

Oh, and perhaps they want to know if the oven needs to be preheated. I should include that, yes, preheating to 400°F is necessary.

Also, suggesting to let the yams rest afterward could be helpful. They might not think to do that, but it helps in finishing the cooking process.

I think that covers the basics. I should present it in a clear, step-by-step manner so they can follow along easily.

To bake yams at 400°F (200°C), follow these steps for best results:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the yams: Scrub the yams clean, then poke each with a fork a few times to allow steam to escape while baking. This helps prevent them from bursting in the oven.

3. Wrap in foil (optional): For even cooking and to retain moisture, you can wrap each yam individually in aluminum foil. This step is optional but recommended if you want a softer texture.

4. Bake the yams: Place the yams directly on the middle rack of the oven. The baking time varies depending on the size:

   • Small yams: 45–60 minutes.
   • Medium yams: 60–75 minutes.
   • Large yams: 75–90 minutes.

5. Check for doneness: Remove a yam from the oven and carefully unwrap it if using foil. Insert a fork or knife; it should slide in easily. The internal temperature should reach 205°F to 210°F (96°C to 99°C).

6. Let them rest: Once baked, allow the yams to cool for a few minutes. This helps the internal heat distribute evenly.

7. Serve: You can slit them open and add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, or any other toppings you prefer.

Enjoy your perfectly baked yams!