Sweet Potato

Sweet Potato is a versatile and nutritious root vegetable with a creamy texture and sweet, earthy flavor. It is available year-round, with peak season in the fall and winter. Sweet potatoes are a staple in many cuisines, including American, African, Asian, and Latin American. They can be roasted, mashed, baked, or fried and are commonly used in both savory and sweet dishes, such as casseroles, pies, and soups.

Sweet Potato Synonyms

Yam (in the US
though they are different vegetables)
Kumara (in New Zealand)
Batata

Sweet Potato Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Sweet Potato

Whole

Sweet potatoes are most commonly found in their whole, unprocessed form, with a variety of skin colors ranging from white and yellow to orange and purple.

Canned

Canned sweet potatoes are often pre-cooked and packed in syrup or water, suitable for quick recipes or as a time-saving ingredient.

Frozen

Chopped and frozen sweet potatoes are available for those who want to save prep time without compromising on the fresh taste.

Pureed

Sweet potato puree is available for convenience, often used in baking or as a base for soups and sauces.

How to Choose Sweet Potato

When selecting sweet potatoes, look for firm, smooth-skinned potatoes without any cracks, bruises, or soft spots. The skin should be even in color and the potato should feel heavy for its size. Organic sweet potatoes can be a good choice to avoid pesticides, but they may not be necessary if you plan to peel them.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be prepared in a myriad of ways. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to note that the high sugar content of sweet potatoes can lead to quicker caramelization, which is excellent for creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. However, this also means they can burn more easily, so monitoring the cooking process is key. When baking or roasting, piercing the skin of the sweet potato can prevent it from bursting and allows steam to escape. For a smooth puree, ensure the sweet potatoes are fully cooked to avoid a grainy texture. Additionally, sweet potatoes can vary in moisture content, so adjust the cooking time and methods accordingly.

Shelf Life of Sweet Potato

Store whole sweet potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place, not in the refrigerator, as cold temperatures can affect their taste and texture. They can last up to a month when stored properly. Canned sweet potatoes should be stored in a cool, dry place and used before the expiration date. Once opened, transfer any unused sweet potatoes to a covered glass or plastic container and refrigerate, using within 5-7 days. Frozen sweet potatoes should be kept in the freezer and used before the 'use by' date for best quality.

Recommended Brands for Sweet Potato

canned sweet potatoes: Bruce's Yams

frozen sweet potatoes: Birds Eye

pureed sweet potatoes: Libby's

Cooking Techniques for Sweet Potato

Baking: Baking sweet potatoes whole in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until tender, usually for about 45-60 minutes, is a simple method that enhances their natural sweetness.

Roasting: Cubed or sliced sweet potatoes can be tossed with oil and seasonings and roasted at a high temperature (around 425°F or 220°C) until they are caramelized and crispy, typically 25-35 minutes.

Steaming: Steaming sweet potatoes is a quick and healthy way to cook them, preserving their nutrients and natural flavors. It typically takes about 30 minutes for them to become fork-tender.