Southern Candied Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:
4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup water
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and slice sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds. Set aside.

Make the Syrup: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger (if using), and salt. Stir until sugars dissolve and mixture becomes smooth.

Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Add sweet potato slices to the skillet in an even layer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish the Dish: Check for tenderness with a fork. If necessary, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Stir in vanilla extract just before serving.

Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, spoon syrup over the top, and serve hot.