Yam

Dioscorea spp. Root Vegetable

Yam Root Vegetable

At a Glance

  • Category Root Vegetable

The Forktionary Angle

"The Misunderstood Root: Unravel the true identity of yams and celebrate their cultural significance and versatile culinary applications."

Definition

A starchy, edible tuberous root, often confused with sweet potatoes, characterized by its rough skin and typically drier, earthier flesh.

Global Production (2020) ~75 million metric tons
Primary Growing Region West Africa ("Yam Belt")
Vitamin C Content Good source (~20% DV per serving)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Yam are:

Earthy Starchy Mildly Sweet (some varieties) Nutty Dense

Chef’s Secret

For traditional preparation, peel yams under running water to prevent skin irritation (oxalic acid) and par-boil before frying or roasting for even cooking.

Best Substitutes

Sweet Potato

in some recipes, but differs in texture/sweetness
Ratio 1:1

Yucca/Cassava

for starchiness, less sweet
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for firm, unblemished yams without soft spots or sprouts. Store in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area (not refrigerator) for several weeks.

Recipes Using Yam

Healthy 2 Low Protein Dietary Low In Something

Baked Yams With Ginger And Honey

Elevate your taste buds with this irresistible recipe for Baked Yams with Ginger, Honey, and Cardamom! Even yam skeptics will be raving about this incredibly flavorful dish. Perfectly spiced and subtly sweet, these baked yams are a delicious side dish or a satisfying vegetarian meal. The addition of cardamom adds a warm, aromatic depth that takes this classic recipe to the next level. Prepare to be amazed!

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Occasion Low In Something Presentation Low Sodium

Apricot Glazed Yams

Sweet and savory perfection! These Apricot Glazed Yams are a show-stopping side dish, especially delicious alongside roasted ham or your favorite holiday protein. The sweet apricot glaze, complemented by a touch of sherry and orange zest, creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds singing. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress!

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Side Dishes 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make Preparation

Baked Yams With Lime And Honey

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this Baked Yams with Lime and Honey recipe! Sweet honey and tangy lime perfectly complement the earthy sweetness of baked yams. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a comforting side dish or a unique dessert. Get ready to experience a delightful explosion of taste!

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Quick Breads Dietary Easy Course

Add Ins Bread

This versatile banana bread recipe, sourced from a cherished Firebaugh, California church cookbook, is a family favorite! It's incredibly adaptable—use your favorite mix-ins to create a unique loaf every time. Our go-to version features perfectly moist banana bread with irresistible flavor. Get ready to bake up a batch of deliciousness!

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Yams Sweet Potatoes Main Ingredient Side Dishes Vegetables

Baked Yams With Spicy Molasses Butter

Sweet and spicy baked yams are elevated to a whole new level with a luscious, homemade spiced molasses butter! This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy fall or winter dinner, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion. The yams are perfectly tender and bursting with flavor, while the spiced butter adds a delightful kick. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Dinner Party Side Dishes Potatoes Course

A Very Simple Sweet Potato Or Yam

Microwave this sweet potato or yam in under 15 minutes for a quick and incredibly delicious side dish! Perfectly tender and subtly sweet, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a simple addition to any meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Breads Muffins Breads Quick Breads

I Yam What I Yam Muffins

These moist and decadent sweet potato muffins are a delightful twist on a classic! The secret? A touch of sorghum and a sprinkle of sugar on top for a gloriously crunchy, cracked glaze. Prepare for a burst of warm spice and sweet potato goodness in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack.

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Dietary Inexpensive Time To Make Vegetables

Balsamic Honey Roasted Root Vegetables

Impress your taste buds with this easy, budget-friendly Balsamic Honey Roasted Root Vegetable recipe! Perfect for cozy fall and winter evenings, this dish is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Roast until tender and caramelized, then enjoy it hot or cold – delicious on its own, or tossed with spring greens and a vibrant balsamic or goddess dressing. Easily customizable with your favorite root vegetables like celery root, baking potatoes, or red beets. A stress-free recipe even beginners can master!

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Occasion Low Cholesterol Low In Something Easy

Awesome Yam And Cranberry Casserole

This award-winning Southern-inspired casserole is a holiday must-have! A crowd-pleasing blend of sweet yams, tart cranberries, and warm spices, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make yet delivers an unforgettable taste. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, this recipe is requested time and again. Prepare to be amazed!

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Vegetables Preparation Easy Vegetables

Baked Yams With Cinnamon Chili Butter

Spice up your holiday table (or any night!) with these irresistible baked yams! A warm, comforting twist on classic candied yams, this recipe features a zesty cinnamon chili butter that will leave you craving more. Sweet, spicy, and unbelievably easy to make – perfect for a delicious side dish that's sure to impress.

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Vegetables Green Yellow Beans Technique Lunch

A Ramchandani Special Subru Uncle's Traditional Sindhi Curry Mo

Indulge in this legendary Sindhi Curry recipe, a family favorite passed down through generations! This rich and flavorful curry, beloved by even the pickiest eaters, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its aromatic spices and hearty ingredients create a deeply satisfying dish perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. Served with rice and your favorite raita, this sinful yet irresistible curry is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Warning: it's incredibly addictive!

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Yams Sweet Potatoes Vegetables Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less

Berry Mallow Yam Bake

This Thanksgiving classic has been a family favorite for 20 years! A delightful blend of sweet yams, tart cranberries, buttery oat topping, and gooey marshmallows, this Berry Mallow Yam Bake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Prepare for a cozy autumnal flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more!

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Vegetarian Served Hot Dinner Party Potatoes

Subru Uncle's Delicious's Indian Sambar Veg Curry We All Love

This family-favorite South Indian Sambar recipe, perfected over 13 years by Subru Uncle (a former Oman hotel chef!), is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Imagine the rich aroma of spices filling your kitchen as you create this authentic, flavorful curry. Served hot with rice, it's a complete meal that's perfect for everyday dinners or special occasions – it even disappears quickly at potlucks! Learn Subru Uncle's secret to a gold-star sambar and elevate your Indian cooking today. Pairs perfectly with our recipe #17933 (presumably rasam).

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30 Minutes Or Less Low Cholesterol Yams Sweet Potatoes Kid Friendly

30 Minute Seasoned Sweet Potato Yam Fries Baked Not Fried

Craving crispy, zesty fries without the guilt? These baked sweet potato and yam fries are ready in just 30 minutes! Perfectly seasoned with a hint of spice, they're the ideal side dish for veggie burgers, salads, or any meal needing a delicious and healthy boost. Even sweet potato skeptics will be hooked! #sweetpotatofries #yamfries #bakedfries #healthyfries #easyrecipe #30minuterecipe #vegan #vegetarian

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Time To Make Course Easter Oven

Balsamic Roasted Yams

Sweet and savory perfection! These Balsamic Roasted Yams are incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor. A simple glaze of balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and butter elevates the natural sweetness of the yams, creating a side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this irresistible recipe!

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Cuisine Potatoes Course Vegetables

African Yam And Peanut Soup

Transport your taste buds to Victoria, BC with this vibrant African Yam and Peanut Soup, inspired by the renowned Rebar restaurant! This exotic and flavorful soup boasts the perfect balance of spice, featuring a delightful ginger and cilantro combination. Imagine the warm, aromatic spices filling your kitchen on a chilly weekend – the vibrant colors and intoxicating smells alone make it worth the effort. Serve this hearty soup with a warm whole wheat pita and a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. While chopping the vegetables takes some time (prep time varies, but plan for at least 30 minutes), the result is a delicious and rewarding culinary experience.

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Main Dish Chick Peas Garbanzos Vegetarian 60 Minutes Or Less

African Yam Stew

This vibrant and flavorful African Yam Stew is a complete meal in itself! Simple to make, yet bursting with healthy ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Tender yams, hearty chickpeas, and fragrant spices combine to create a satisfying and nutritious stew. Enjoy it as is, or serve with pita bread or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess. Get ready to savor the delicious leftovers!

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Preparation Side Dishes Time To Make Desserts

Baked Sweet Yams In Pineapple Juice

Elevate your sweet potato game with this irresistible Baked Sweet Yams in Pineapple Glaze recipe! Sweet and savory yams are baked to tender perfection in a luscious, homemade pineapple syrup. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Get ready for rave reviews!

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