Sweet potatoes, originating in South America, hold a fascinating history. Not only were they cultivated by ancient civilizations in the Americas, but they also made their way across the Pacific to Polynesia, where they are called kumar. Though often confused with potatoes, sweet potatoes belong to an entirely different plant family and are only distantly related. Adding to the confusion, many North Americans refer to sweet potatoes as yams—a misnomer that dates back to the early days of African slavery in the U.S., when enslaved people likened soft sweet potatoes to the yams they knew from Africa.
Sweet potatoes come in two primary varieties:
- Firm sweet potatoes retain their structure when cooked and have a drier texture.
- Soft sweet potatoes become creamy and moist when cooked, often marketed as “yams” in the United States.
Their skin colors span shades of red, brown, purple, and white, while their flesh can range from white and yellow to vibrant orange or purple. This stunning variety makes sweet potatoes a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.
The United States is one of the world’s leading producers of sweet potatoes. North Carolina reigns as the top-producing state, with rich, sandy soils perfect for cultivating this crop. California, Mississippi, and Louisiana also contribute significantly to production. At our farmers’ markets, organic options such as those from Sea to Sky Farm and Phil Foster Ranch (Pinnacle) highlight the best of sustainable farming.
Sweet potatoes are more than just delicious; they’re a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins A, C, B, and B6, as well as essential minerals like calcium and potassium, they support overall health, boost immunity, and promote glowing skin. High in fiber and antioxidants, particularly in the orange and purple varieties, sweet potatoes can play a role in reducing inflammation and improving gut health.
How to Select:
Look for sweet potatoes that are firm with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid those with soft spots, cracks, or signs of decay, as these may indicate they’re past their prime.
How to Store:
To maintain freshness, store sweet potatoes in a dark, cool place with good ventilation—ideally between 55°F and 60°F. Never refrigerate them or store them in plastic bags, as these conditions can alter their flavor and texture. When properly stored, sweet potatoes will keep for about 10 days.
Sweet potatoes are incredibly versatile. Roast them for a caramelized side dish, mash them for a creamy comfort food, or spiralize them for a healthy pasta alternative. They also shine in desserts like pies and cakes, where their natural sweetness enhances flavor without the need for excessive sugar.
RECIPES: Sweet Potato Cornbread with Honey Butter, Sweet Potato Casserole with Toasted Pecan and Coconut Streusel, Indian Yam Curry, Sweet Potato Soup with Maple Croutons, Roasted Sweet Potato Fries, Sweet Potato Soup with Buttered Pecans, Sweet Potato Pecan Pie, Curried Sweet Potato Latkes, Glazed Sweet Potatoes, Caribbean Sweet Potatoes, Scalloped Sweet Potatoes, Sweet Potato Muffins, How to Steam Sweet Potatoes, Sweet Potato and Gouda Gratin, Chili Glazed Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Wild Plum’s Roasted Yam Mash
Photo submitted by Chris Laughlin, Sea to Sky Farm
