Yam
SNAPSHOT
Description: Shaped like a log, the yam is brown and shaggy-coated. This tuber has a crisp flesh that may be either white or yellow.
Yams are not even distantly related to the sweet potato but are generally sweeter with more natural sugar. Yams can generally be used in any sweet potato recipe.
Although you may find canned vegetables labeled as yams, they are most likely not true yams. Warning: Unlike sweet potatoes, Yams are toxic if eaten raw, yet perfectly safe when cooked.
Taste: Generally described as potato-like, a cooked yam has a nutty flavor with a firm texture.
Selection: Select hard yams without cracks or soft spots.
Ripening: Not necessary
Season: All year
Brooks Origin: Costa Rica (primarily), Jamaica
Nutritional Info: A single 1-oz. serving contains 33 calories and Vitamin A.