Praline Topping:
1 to 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/3 cup chopped pecans
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1. Scrub yams. Drop into boiling water. Cook until tender. (Yams can be pared, sliced or cubed and boiled, to save time). Drain, cool and peel.

2. Mash or process until smooth. Mix in salt, pepper, brown sugar, brandy or bourbon, if used, egg yolk and butter.

3. Beat until light. Spoon into an 8 inch square baking dish.

4. Melt the butter for the topping. Combine with brown sugar, pecans and nutmeg. Spread over yams.

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Good served with: Roast turkey, your favorite green vegetables and relishes, dinner rolls and a holiday pie for dessert.

Variations: For real Southern eating, double the praline topping ingredients.

Tips: The yams can be broiled after heating to make the praline topping a little crispy.