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Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes, scientifically known as Ipomoea batatas, are a popular root vegetable that boasts a vibrant orange flesh and a sweet, mildly earthy flavor. Thought to have originated in Central or South America, they are rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly beta-carotene, which contributes to their vibrant color. Sweet potatoes are versatile and can be utilized in various dishes such as soups, stews, fries, or pies, or simply baked, grilled, or pureed as a side dish. They are often consumed in numerous forms, especially during holiday feasts, making them a staple in many households.
#18
IN FRESH VEGETABLES
86
CAL / 100G
$0.07
AVG / OZ
sweet potato
93%
CARBS
0%
FAT
7%
PROTEIN
Sweet Potato FAQ
Cooking with sweet potatoes can be a delightful experience, offering a delicious combination of flavor, versatility, and nutritional benefits. However, there can be some confusion and common errors when handling this root vegetable. People often get confused between sweet potatoes and yams, which are actually two different types of tubers and deliver different flavors. Yams are generally larger, sweeter and have a more starchy taste. Sweet potatoes cook quickly and can become overly soft or even mushy if overcooked, so it's always important to keep an eye on your cooking time. It's also commonly believed that sweet potatoes always need to be peeled before cooking, but this is a misconception. The skin of the sweet potato is edible and packed with nutrients. It also provides a nice contrasting texture when cooked, especially when baking or grilling. To get the most out of your sweet potato, roast them - this method of cooking brings out their natural sweetness. You can also try boiling them for a healthier option as boiling helps retain most of the vitamins and prevents dryness. A little known tip: Sweet potatoes are a great baby food as they’re soft, easy to digest and packed full of the necessary nutrients. Just make sure they’re properly cooked and mashed.
How do you cook sweet potatoes without losing nutrients?
Do you need to peel sweet potatoes before cooking?
Are sweet potatoes good for you?
How do I know when my sweet potatoes are cooked?
What's the best way to cook sweet potatoes?
Can I eat sweet potato raw?
Why are my sweet potatoes stringy?
Can you eat the skin of a sweet potato?
Is there a difference between yams and sweet potatoes?
Can I use sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes in recipes?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does sweet potato expire?
Fresh sweet potatoes can last about 3-5 weeks in the pantry, and about 2-3 months in the fridge. Once cooked, leftovers should be consumed within a week when stored in the fridge. Sweet potatoes can be frozen once cooked and can last up to a year in the freezer.
How do you tell if sweet potato is bad?
A sweet potato is bad when it becomes soft or leaky. Additionally, you could see black spots or mold growing on the surface. A strongly off smell is also an indication that the sweet potato is no longer good. Its inside could turn black or brown. If you see these signs, it's best to toss it.
Tips for storing sweet potato to extend shelf life
• Store fresh sweet potatoes in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight. A pantry or cellar is a good choice. Don't refrigerate them as it can negatively affect their taste. • Cooked sweet potatoes should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Try to let them cool to room temperature before doing so to prevent condensation build up. • If you're planning to freeze sweet potatoes, make sure they are cooked first. Allow them to cool, then cut into suitable portions, and pack in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible from the freezer bags to minimize freezer burn. • When it’s time to defrost, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight, or you can go straight to reheating in the microwave or oven as they'll defrost in the process.
EXPIRES WITHIN
7 - 10
WEEKS
Health Info
Macros
26g
CARBS
0g
FAT
2g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
VEGETARIAN
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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