YAMS VS. SWEET POTATOES: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
The confusion between yams and sweet potatoes is nothing new. When we see them alongside our Thanksgiving turkey, we might not know which one we are really looking at. Grocery stores often use the names interchangeably or have them mislabeled. However, yams and sweet potatoes are not one and the same—they actually are not even related. Despite this, sweet potatoes, particularly those with bright orange interiors used for dishes like marshmallow-topped casseroles, have often been mistakenly labeled as yams.
Yams are distinctly different from sweet potatoes in appearance and taste. They are not found among the types of potatoes and have a different texture and flavor profile. Read on to clarify the confusion once and for all and learn the specific characteristics that set yams apart from sweet potatoes.
| YAMS | SWEET POTATOES |
|---|---|
| Tubers | Root tubers |
| White, yellow and purple | Orange, purple or white flesh |
| Mild, slightly sweet flavor | Sweet flavor |
| Thick skin that is smooth or tufted with hair | Thin, edible skin |
WHAT ARE YAMS?
Yams, grown on twining vines, come in various sizes, shapes, skin colors and textures, with thick skins, which are often smooth or hairy. They’re typically cooked before eating to remove toxins, altering their texture to soft, crumbly, fibrous or waxy. Usually, yams have a mild flavor, ranging from sweet to nutty or meaty.
To prepare yams, you can simply wash them thoroughly, then boil, steam or roast them with your KitchenAid® range, until they are tender.
WHAT ARE SWEET POTATOES?
Sweet potatoes, known for their moist and sweet flesh, are often mislabelled as yams. They come from the vine Ipomoea batatas, originating in Central and South America. With thin, edible skins, sweet potatoes have sweet flesh in various colors. Their leaves can also be cooked as a vegetable. Unlike yams, sweet potatoes cook faster, retain more moisture and have a pronounced sweetness. They also can stay solid, even after cooling.
Sweet potatoes can be prepared similarly to yams. Using your KitchenAid® range you can boil, sauté, roast or bake sweet potatoes to your desired tenderness and then season or top them to your tastes.
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TYPES OF SWEET POTATOES
There are many varieties of sweet potatoes, with some being more common than others. The different sweet potatoes vary in color and texture and can be used in different ways. Some of the most common types of sweet potatoes include:
- Garnet
Hannah
Japanese
Jewel
Purple Stoke
Heirloom
Korean Purple
Beauregard
Creamsicle
Okinawa
COOKING YAMS VS. SWEET POTATOES: RECIPE IDEAS
When it comes to cooking yams and sweet potatoes, there are endless possibilities to explore in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for savory side dishes, hearty main courses or sweet treats, these versatile tubers can elevate any meal. It is not recommended to substitute yams for sweet potatoes in sweet dishes, but when you are cooking savory dishes, it is an option. Explore the recipe ideas below to inspire your culinary adventures and learn more about cooking with potatoes.
1. SWEET POTATO RISOTTO
Try this recipe for Sweet Potato Risotto and indulge in a creamy and comforting dish that combines the earthy flavors of sweet potatoes with the rich texture of risotto. Use your KitchenAid® stand mixer and spiralizer attachment (sold separately) to create this sweet and savory dish.
2. SWEET POTATO GNOCCHI
Crafted with tender sweet potatoes, this dish offers a delicate balance of savory and sweet flavors. Each pillow-like gnocchi is meticulously handmade, ensuring a light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Serve with your favorite sauce or simply toss in brown butter and sage.
3. CANDIED SWEET POTATO MINI CAKES
Use your KitchenAid® stand mixer and vegetable sheet cutter attachment (sold separately) to satisfy your sweet tooth with irresistible Candied Sweet Potato Mini Cakes. These delightful treats are a harmonious blend of soft, moist sweet potato cake and decadent candied pecans, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.
4. COCONUT CURRY CARROT AND SWEET POTATO SOUP
This vibrant and aromatic dish combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes and carrots with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the bold flavors of curry spices. Each spoonful is a symphony of taste sensations, from the warming notes of ginger and garlic to the exotic spices that dance on your palate.
5. GROUND BEEF SWEET POTATO CURRY
This hearty and aromatic dish combines savory ground beef with tender sweet potatoes and a medley of aromatic spices. The creamy coconut milk adds richness and depth to the curry, while the blend of curry spices infuses every bite with warmth and complexity.
6. VANILLA BEAN SWEET POTATO GRATIN
Elevate your side dish game with this Vanilla Bean Sweet Potato Gratin. This decadent dish combines the rich sweetness of sweet potatoes with the luxurious flavor of vanilla bean-infused cream, creating a culinary masterpiece.
7. CHICKEN & SWEET POTATO ENCHILADAS
Enjoy mouthwatering enchiladas featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy sweet potatoes and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in warm tortillas and smothered in zesty enchilada sauce. Create the delicious and unique sweet potato tortillas with your KitchenAid® vegetable sheet cutter attachment. Whether served as a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
8. SWEET POTATO BLACK BEAN BURGERS
These hearty and satisfying burgers feature a flavorful combination of mashed sweet potatoes, black beans and aromatic spices, all packed into a delicious patty. Each bite offers a mouthwatering blend of sweetness from the sweet potatoes and earthiness from the black beans, perfectly complemented by the subtle heat of the spices. Start this creative recipe with the help of your KitchenAid® food processor.
9. SPICY PEANUT SWEET POTATO SOUP
This vibrant soup blends the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of peanut butter and the bold flavors of spicy chili peppers. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
10. QUINOA SWEET POTATO WAFFLES
These crispy waffles combine the wholesome goodness of quinoa and sweet potatoes, creating a hearty and satisfying morning treat. Serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a wholesome and satisfying start to your day.
11. ROOT VEGETABLE FRIES
Satisfy your craving for crispy snacks with these root vegetable fries. These irresistible fries are made from a medley of root vegetables, including sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips and yams, providing a colorful and flavorful alternative to traditional potato fries. Each fry is oven-baked to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
12. HASSELBACK POTATO GRATIN
Enjoy this Hasselback Potato Gratin, featuring both potatoes and yams. This decadent dish layers thinly sliced potatoes and yams, creating a stunning presentation and a deliciously creamy texture. Each bite is a harmonious blend of tender potatoes, creamy yams and rich, cheesy goodness.
13. GRILLED VEGGIES WITH PESTO
Fire up the grill to create these grilled veggies with pesto. This vibrant dish features a colorful array of seasonal vegetables, including zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes and asparagus, all grilled to perfection and tossed in a flavorful pesto sauce. For a unique twist, you can also use yams, adding a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish. Make your own homemade pesto with your KitchenAid® food processor to make this recipe a breeze.
14. STEAMED SWEET POTATOES STUFFED WITH FARRO
This wholesome dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor and chewy texture of farro. Simply steam the sweet potatoes until tender, then fill them with a hearty mixture of cooked farro, sautéed vegetables and aromatic herbs. Each bite is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, with a hint of earthiness from the farro. You could also experiment with yams, adding a unique new flavor.
SHOP KITCHENAID® FOOD PROCESSORS FOR PREPARING SWEET POTATOES & YAMS
Whether you are preparing yams for your potato gratin or sweet potatoes for a savory soup, a KitchenAid® food processor can help you transform your ingredients into an inspired meal. With select KitchenAid® food processors, you can easily adjust slicing thickness, reduce prep time and tackle chopping, shredding and more.
