Post by Loupy on Nov 16, 2012 13:13:40 GMT -7
Sweet Potatoes 101
bettereats.com/
Sweet potatoes are often associated with two things: Thanksgiving, and marshmallows. They are also often used interchangeably with yams. But yams and sweet potatoes aren’t actually one and the same– so what’s the difference? We aim to clear up confusion and show you how these vitamin A-packed orange veggies can bring you health benefits throughout the fall and winter. Here’s the scoop…
SWEET POTATOES vs. YAMS
The confusion between sweet potatoes and yams goes back to the introduction of sweet potatoes to the American marketplace! Sweet potatoes originated in Central America, whereas yams come to us from Africa. Although they look alike, they differ in taste – sweet potatoes are, well, sweet, whereas yams are usually earthier. If you’re eating yams at Thanksgiving, chances are they’re actually sweet potatoes in disguise.
SWEET POTATO NUTRITION FACTS
Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A, which means your body can fight free radicals, and is defended against certain cancers and have a lower risk of heart disease.
They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B, and potassium.
They have a lower glycemic index than white potatoes, which means they’re a good choice for people with diabetes, and they keep you fuller longer. It also makes them a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without splurging on carbs!
Their color isn’t just pretty – the pigments in sweet potatoes have anti-inflammatory properties, and have even been known to help with the body’s blood clotting capabilities.
BETTER EATS FACT!
Although we know them as an orange vegetable, sweet potatoes also come in a purple variety. Purple sweet potatoes can bring a boost in antioxidants, so use these for our Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Balsamic Drizzle for a colorful surprise!
HOW TO STORE, CUT, & ENJOY
Here are the basics for sweet potatoes: store them at room temperature for up to ten days. When you’re ready, cut one end of the potato off to give yourself a flat surface. Using your sharpest knife, hold the flat end down and cut lengthwise. From there, you can cut them into spears for our Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew or slice them for our Moroccan-Rubbed Grilled Steak and Sweet Potatoes. Or you can skip most of the work and make Sweet Potatoes with Warm Black Bean Salad.
Want fabulous recipes? Go to bettereats.com/blog/post/wednesday-101-sweet-potatoes-yams-benefits? to find the links.
bettereats.com/
Sweet potatoes are often associated with two things: Thanksgiving, and marshmallows. They are also often used interchangeably with yams. But yams and sweet potatoes aren’t actually one and the same– so what’s the difference? We aim to clear up confusion and show you how these vitamin A-packed orange veggies can bring you health benefits throughout the fall and winter. Here’s the scoop…
SWEET POTATOES vs. YAMS
The confusion between sweet potatoes and yams goes back to the introduction of sweet potatoes to the American marketplace! Sweet potatoes originated in Central America, whereas yams come to us from Africa. Although they look alike, they differ in taste – sweet potatoes are, well, sweet, whereas yams are usually earthier. If you’re eating yams at Thanksgiving, chances are they’re actually sweet potatoes in disguise.
SWEET POTATO NUTRITION FACTS
Sweet potatoes are loaded with vitamin A, which means your body can fight free radicals, and is defended against certain cancers and have a lower risk of heart disease.
They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B, and potassium.
They have a lower glycemic index than white potatoes, which means they’re a good choice for people with diabetes, and they keep you fuller longer. It also makes them a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without splurging on carbs!
Their color isn’t just pretty – the pigments in sweet potatoes have anti-inflammatory properties, and have even been known to help with the body’s blood clotting capabilities.
BETTER EATS FACT!
Although we know them as an orange vegetable, sweet potatoes also come in a purple variety. Purple sweet potatoes can bring a boost in antioxidants, so use these for our Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Balsamic Drizzle for a colorful surprise!
HOW TO STORE, CUT, & ENJOY
Here are the basics for sweet potatoes: store them at room temperature for up to ten days. When you’re ready, cut one end of the potato off to give yourself a flat surface. Using your sharpest knife, hold the flat end down and cut lengthwise. From there, you can cut them into spears for our Chicken and Sweet Potato Stew or slice them for our Moroccan-Rubbed Grilled Steak and Sweet Potatoes. Or you can skip most of the work and make Sweet Potatoes with Warm Black Bean Salad.
Want fabulous recipes? Go to bettereats.com/blog/post/wednesday-101-sweet-potatoes-yams-benefits? to find the links.
