{Peeled sweet potato}
Sweet potatoes are native to Central and South America. Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A. Steaming or boiling are the best methods to keep the nutrition of these potatoes intact, AND you have to eat a little fat in order to absorb the beta-carotene and vitamin A because they are fat-soluble (pass the butter!). Fat-soluble means that they can only be absorb or used when fat is present. Not only that, sweet potatoes are loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory nutrients, and has blood sugar benefits. (source)
According to the Self Nutrition Data website, sweet potatoes are low in sodium, and very low in saturated fat and cholesterol. It is also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin B6 and potassium, and a very good source of vitamin A, vitamin C and manganese. In 1 cup (steamed), there are 180 calories and 6.6 grams of dietary fiber!
Did you know that sweet potatoes and yams are two completely different types of plants? Yams are native to Africa and Asia and can grow to be very large although both are alike in skin and flesh color. Sweet potatoes are available in the US. To get a true yam, you will probably have to visit an international market. (source)
Sweet potatoes should be firm with no visible bruises or cracks. Store in a cool, dry, dark place, but not in the refrigerator because it alters their taste. Learn how to cut sweet potatoes easily here.
Now on to what you've really been dying to see--the recipes!!!
Do you like sweet potatoes? How to do you like to eat them?
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