What is the difference between a sweet potato and a yam? The definition of yam is; the edible starchy tuber of a climbing plant that is widely grown in tropical and subtropical countries. So, you see that the many so-called yams that you have been eating all these years are actually a sweet potato. Compared to potatoes, yams are more starchy and dry. They became members of the Morning Glory family. Colors can range from white to yellow, red, purple, brown to orange. They are also a good source of fiber and vitamin A.
Sweet potatoes are versatile and can be substituted in place of foods that are more fattening. You can use them to thicken your stews or casserole naturally without adding high-fat creams. Potatoes are considered by most to be just another Thanksgiving garnish, but they can be roasted, baked, and used in cakes. Showing how versatile the potato is, we will share some of those recipes.
Sweet Potato Chips
They can be ready in just 30 minutes. The ingredients are simple.
3-4 sweet potatoes
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
Cut the potatoes into round wheels about 1/2 inch thick and immediately dip them in water so they don’t discolor. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel. Fry over low heat until golden brown and until tender in the middle. Place on a paper towel and leave immediately. Serve and enjoy with fish or pork.
Classic Sweet Potato Casserole
3 cups sweet potato puree, cooled
1 1/2 cups brown sugar (packed, divided)
2 large eggs lightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup of milk
3/4 cup butter, melted (divided)
1/3 cup flour
4 ounces chopped pecans (1 cup)
Heat the oven to 350 F (180C / Gas4)
Butter a 2-quart casserole or baking dish
In a large bowl combine the mashed potatoes with 1 cup of the brown sugar, the vanilla egg extract, the milk, and 1/2 cup of the melted butter. Mix well; Pour the mixture into a prepared baking dish.
In another bowl combine remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, flour, remaining 1/4 cup melted butter, and chopped walnuts; Mix well.
Sprinkle nut topping mixture over top of sweet potato casserole.
Bake the casserole for 35 to 40 minutes, until the filling is hot and the topping is golden brown.
Peel 3 large potatoes; Cut into 1-inch slices and place in saucepan. Cover with water, bring to a boil; and lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender. Drain, mash and cool slightly before using in the recipe.