Whether buying a yam or sweet potato, select the best quality.
Derived from the African word "nyami," the word yam as used in the United States typically refers to sweet potatoes. However, the two are distinguishable. Yams are more starchy, whereas sweet potatoes are sweet. Yams are typically imported from the Caribbean while sweet potatoes are grown in the United States. Despite their differences, whether you are buying a yam or a sweet potato, the means of selecting the best one is the same.
Instructions
1. Buy small to medium yams because smaller yams have less stringy fibers than larger ones. This makes these yams easier to eat. In addition, they will cook more evenly.
2. Examine the yam's coloring. Yams with darker skins are typically moister and have a sweeter taste than lighter ones.
3. Examine the yam's skin for signs of shriveling. Shriveling indicates the yam is old or going bad.
4. Turn the yam, and examine it for bruising or dark spots, which indicate damage or rot under the skin.
5. Continue turning the yam, and examine it for knots, holes or decay. Do not worry about small surface nicks as you will remove these when peeling the skin. Although small blemishes and nicks can be cut away, decayed spots can affect the yam's taste.
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