Roasted yam halves

Halving the yams before roasting greatly reduces the cooking time and allows them to develop a nice golden crust.

2 yams or sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme

Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

• Preheat the oven to 400F. Halve the yams, and place, cut side up, in a shallow baking dish just large enough to hold them in a single layer.
• Drizzle with the oil, and sprinkle with the thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Bake until golden brown and very tender, 35 to 45 minutes.

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