The age-old debate about candied yams and sweet potatoes has been a staple of holiday gatherings and family dinners for decades. While some people use the terms interchangeably, others claim that they are two distinct vegetables. But what’s the truth behind this culinary conundrum? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, nutritional differences, and culinary uses of both candied yams and sweet potatoes to finally put this debate to rest.
A Brief History of Yams and Sweet Potatoes
To understand the difference between candied yams and sweet potatoes, it’s essential to explore their origins. Yams are a type of starchy root vegetable native to Africa and Asia, with over 600 varieties grown worldwide. They are a staple crop in many tropical regions, particularly in West Africa, where they are boiled, fried, or roasted as a side dish.
Sweet potatoes, on the other hand, are native to the Americas and are a member of the morning glory family. They were first domesticated in present-day Peru and Ecuador over 7,000 years ago. Sweet potatoes were a staple crop in many Native American communities, who cultivated them for their nutritional value and versatility.
The Great Yam-Sweet Potato Mix-Up
So, how did the confusion between candied yams and sweet potatoes arise? The answer lies in the early 20th-century marketing campaigns of Louisiana sweet potato farmers. To differentiate their product from the more widely available white potatoes, they began marketing their sweet potatoes as “yams.” This was partly due to the fact that the sweet potatoes grown in Louisiana were a variety that was softer and sweeter than other types of sweet potatoes.
The term “yam” was already familiar to many Americans, who associated it with the tropical root vegetable. However, the “yams” being sold in supermarkets were, in fact, sweet potatoes. This marketing ploy was so successful that it became a standard practice throughout the United States, with many people using the terms “yam” and “sweet potato” interchangeably.
Nutritional Differences Between Yams and Sweet Potatoes
While both yams and sweet potatoes are nutrient-rich, they have some key differences in terms of their nutritional profiles.
| | Yams | Sweet Potatoes |
| — | — | — |
| Calories | 110 per 100g | 105 per 100g |
| Fiber | 4g per 100g | 3g per 100g |
| Vitamin A | 0.1mg per 100g | 14,184 IU per 100g |
| Vitamin C | 20mg per 100g | 2.4mg per 100g |
As the table above shows, yams are generally higher in fiber and lower in calories than sweet potatoes. However, sweet potatoes are significantly higher in vitamin A, with a single serving providing over 100% of the recommended daily intake.
The Impact of Cooking on Nutrition
It’s worth noting that the nutritional differences between yams and sweet potatoes can be affected by cooking methods. Boiling or baking yams and sweet potatoes can help retain their nutrients, while frying or deep-frying can significantly reduce their nutritional value.
Culinary Uses of Yams and Sweet Potatoes
Both yams and sweet potatoes are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory stews to sweet desserts.
Candied Yams: A Holiday Tradition
Candied yams are a classic holiday side dish in many American households. They are typically made by boiling or baking yams, then topping them with a mixture of sugar, marshmallows, and spices. However, as we’ve established earlier, the “yams” used in this recipe are often actually sweet potatoes.
A Simple Candied Yam Recipe
If you’re looking to try your hand at making candied yams, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced sweet potatoes and granulated sugar. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
- Transfer the sweet potatoes to a baking dish and top with the light brown sugar, marshmallows, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the marshmallows are golden brown.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while candied yams and sweet potatoes are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing. Yams are a type of starchy root vegetable native to Africa and Asia, while sweet potatoes are a member of the morning glory family native to the Americas.
However, it’s worth noting that the “yams” commonly found in supermarkets are often actually sweet potatoes. This is due to a historical marketing campaign that aimed to differentiate sweet potatoes from white potatoes.
Whether you’re a fan of candied yams or sweet potatoes, both ingredients offer a range of nutritional and culinary benefits. By understanding the differences between these two ingredients, you can make informed choices about the food you eat and explore new recipes and flavors.
What is the difference between candied yams and sweet potatoes?
Candied yams and sweet potatoes are often confused with one another due to their similarities in taste and texture. However, they belong to different species. Candied yams are typically made from true yams, which are starchy root vegetables native to Africa and Asia. On the other hand, sweet potatoes are a type of root vegetable native to the Americas.
In the United States, what is commonly referred to as ‘yams’ is actually a type of sweet potato. This confusion arose from a marketing campaign in the 1930s that labeled sweet potatoes as ‘yams’ to differentiate them from other types of sweet potatoes. As a result, many people in the United States use the terms ‘yams’ and ‘sweet potatoes’ interchangeably, despite them being distinct vegetables.
What are true yams, and how do they differ from sweet potatoes?
True yams are starchy root vegetables that belong to the Dioscoreaceae family. They are native to Africa and Asia and are often larger and starchier than sweet potatoes. True yams have a rough, scaly skin that is difficult to peel, and their flesh is white, yellow, or purple. They are also drier and starchier than sweet potatoes, making them a popular ingredient in many African and Asian dishes.
In contrast, sweet potatoes are sweeter and moister than true yams. They belong to the Convolvulaceae family and are native to the Americas. Sweet potatoes have a smooth, thin skin that is easy to peel, and their flesh is orange, yellow, or white. They are also higher in fiber and antioxidants than true yams, making them a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.
Why are sweet potatoes often labeled as yams in the United States?
In the 1930s, Louisiana farmers began marketing their sweet potatoes as ‘yams’ to differentiate them from other types of sweet potatoes. This marketing campaign was successful, and soon, many grocery stores and supermarkets in the United States began labeling sweet potatoes as ‘yams.’ Today, the term ‘yam’ is often used to refer to sweet potatoes, especially in the southern United States.
However, it’s worth noting that this labeling is technically incorrect. True yams are not commonly found in the United States, and what is labeled as ‘yams’ is usually a type of sweet potato. This confusion has led to many people believing that yams and sweet potatoes are the same thing, when in fact, they are distinct vegetables.
Can I use sweet potatoes as a substitute for true yams in recipes?
While sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute for true yams in some recipes, they are not always interchangeable. True yams are starchier and drier than sweet potatoes, which can affect the texture and flavor of a dish. If a recipe calls for true yams, it’s best to use them if possible.
However, if true yams are not available, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute in some recipes. For example, in candied yam recipes, sweet potatoes can be used as a substitute, and the dish will still be delicious. However, in recipes where the starchiness of true yams is important, such as in some African and Asian dishes, sweet potatoes may not be the best substitute.
How can I tell if I’m buying true yams or sweet potatoes at the grocery store?
In the United States, it’s often difficult to tell if you’re buying true yams or sweet potatoes at the grocery store. Many grocery stores label sweet potatoes as ‘yams,’ which can be confusing. However, there are some clues you can look for to determine if you’re buying true yams or sweet potatoes.
If the vegetable has a rough, scaly skin and is larger and starchier than a sweet potato, it may be a true yam. However, if the vegetable has a smooth, thin skin and is sweeter and moister than a true yam, it’s likely a sweet potato. You can also ask the store staff if they carry true yams, and they may be able to direct you to the correct product.
Are candied yams a traditional dish in the United States?
Candied yams are a popular side dish in the United States, especially during the holidays. However, the dish is not as traditional as it seems. The recipe for candied yams was actually created in the 1930s as a way to market sweet potatoes as ‘yams.’ The dish became popular in the southern United States, where sweet potatoes are commonly grown.
Today, candied yams are a staple at many American holiday tables, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The dish is made by cooking sweet potatoes in a sweet syrup, often with marshmallows and spices. While it’s not a traditional dish in the sense that it’s been passed down through generations, it has become a beloved part of American cuisine.
Can I make candied yams with true yams instead of sweet potatoes?
While it’s technically possible to make candied yams with true yams, the result may not be as sweet and moist as the traditional dish. True yams are starchier and drier than sweet potatoes, which can affect the texture and flavor of the dish.
If you want to try making candied yams with true yams, you may need to adjust the recipe to compensate for the starchiness of the yams. You can try adding more sugar or syrup to the dish, or cooking the yams for a longer period to make them softer. However, keep in mind that the result may not be the same as the traditional candied yam dish made with sweet potatoes.