All About Sweet Potatoes: Types, Cooking Methods, and Recipes

What are Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are a type of root vegetable that belong to the Convolvulaceae family. They are known for their sweet taste and vibrant colors. Sweet potatoes are native to Central and South America and have been cultivated for thousands of years. They are a staple food in many cultures and are enjoyed for their versatility and nutritional benefits.

Types of Sweet Potatoes

There are several different types of sweet potatoes, each with its own unique characteristics and flavors. Here are some of the most popular types:

Old Fashioned Sweet Potato Casserole

Old fashioned sweet potato casserole is a classic dish that is often enjoyed during the holiday season. It is made with mashed sweet potatoes, butter, sugar, and a crunchy pecan topping. This comforting and sweet dish is a favorite among many.

White Sweet Potato

White sweet potatoes have a creamy white flesh and a slightly milder flavor compared to their orange counterparts. They are often used in savory dishes and can be roasted, mashed, or used in soups and stews.

Purple Sweet Potato

Purple sweet potatoes have a vibrant purple flesh and a slightly sweet flavor. They are rich in antioxidants and are a great addition to both sweet and savory dishes. Purple sweet potatoes can be baked, roasted, or mashed.

How to Cook Purple Sweet Potatoes

Cooking purple sweet potatoes is similar to cooking other types of sweet potatoes. Here is a simple method to prepare them:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the purple sweet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
3. Pierce the potatoes with a fork several times to allow steam to escape during cooking.
4. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Smoking sweet potatoes is a delicious way to add a smoky flavor to this root vegetable. Here’s how you can smoke sweet potatoes:

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
2. Wash the sweet potatoes and pat them dry.
3. Brush the sweet potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
4. Place the sweet potatoes directly on the smoker rack and close the lid.
5. Smoke the sweet potatoes for 2-3 hours, or until they are tender and have absorbed the smoky flavor.
6. Remove the sweet potatoes from the smoker and let them cool slightly before serving.

Whipped Sweet Potatoes

Whipped sweet potatoes are a delicious and creamy side dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Here’s how you can make whipped sweet potatoes:

1. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes in a pot of salted water until they are fork-tender.
3. Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a mixing bowl.
4. Add butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the sweet potatoes.
5. Using an electric mixer, whip the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
6. Transfer the whipped sweet potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

Scalloped sweet potatoes are a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for special occasions. Here’s how you can make scalloped sweet potatoes:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and thinly slice the sweet potatoes.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in salt, pepper, and grated cheese.
6. Layer the sliced sweet potatoes in a greased baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over them.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Okinawan Sweet Potato

Okinawan sweet potatoes are a variety of sweet potato that is native to Okinawa, Japan. They have a vibrant purple flesh and a slightly sweet flavor. Okinawan sweet potatoes are often used in desserts, such as pies and cakes, but they can also be enjoyed roasted or mashed.

Sweet Potato Cornbread

Sweet potato cornbread is a delicious twist on traditional cornbread. It is made with a combination of cornmeal, flour, sweet potatoes, buttermilk, and a touch of honey. This moist and flavorful cornbread pairs well with soups, stews, and chili.

Murasaki Sweet Potato

Murasaki sweet potatoes, also known as Japanese sweet potatoes, have a reddish-purple skin and a creamy white flesh. They have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Murasaki sweet potatoes can be baked, boiled, or roasted, and they are often enjoyed as a side dish or used in desserts.