SWEET POTATO

What is the sweet potato?

The sweet potato (also known as batata or yam, depending on the region) is a tuber that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It has a skin that varies between shades of brown, pink, or purple, and its flesh is white, orange, or even purple, depending on the variety. It is often confused with the potato, but they are of different species.

The sweet potato is a very nutritious and healthy food, with the following properties:

• Source of complex carbohydrates: it is rich in starches that provide slow-release energy.
• Rich in fiber: helps in digestion and regulation of the digestive system.
• High content of vitamins and minerals:
  Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene, especially in orange varieties), important for vision and skin.
  Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
  Potassium, essential for proper muscle and nerve function.
  Iron and magnesium, which help in red blood cell production and fluid balance.
  Low glycemic index (compared to the potato), making it an interesting option for people with diabetes.

Varieties:

There are several varieties of sweet potatoes, some of the most common ones are:

• Orange-fleshed sweet potato: the most popular variety, with a sweet taste and creamy texture when cooked.
• White-fleshed sweet potato: less sweet than the orange-fleshed variety, it has a firmer texture.
• Purple sweet potato: has purple flesh and a milder, less sweet flavor.
• Japanese sweet potato (Satsumaimo): with denser and sweeter flesh, very popular in Japan.

Differences between sweet potato and yam. Do you know them? - Mentta Blog

Main producing countries:

Sweet potatoes are grown in several countries, but the main producers worldwide are:
China: It is the largest producer and exporter of sweet potatoes in the world.
United States: Especially in the state of North Carolina, it is one of the largest producers, both for domestic consumption and for export.
India: Another significant producer of sweet potatoes, especially in tropical regions.
Nigeria: One of the main producers in Africa.
Indonesia and other tropical countries: They also grow large quantities of sweet potatoes.

Main producing countries:

Sweet potatoes are grown in several countries, but the main producers worldwide are:

• China: It is the largest producer and exporter of sweet potatoes in the world.
• United States: Especially in the state of North Carolina, it is one of the largest producers, both for domestic consumption and for export.
• India: Another significant producer of sweet potatoes, especially in tropical regions.
• Nigeria: One of the main producers in Africa.
• Indonesia and other tropical countries: They also grow large quantities of sweet potatoes.

How to consume or prepare it:

Sweet potato is versatile and can be prepared in many ways:

Boiled: You can boil or steam it, and then eat it plain or in salads.
Baked: It can be roasted whole in the oven, with its skin, until tender and edible with the skin.
Mashed: It is common to make sweet potato mash, which can be used as a side dish or in soups.
Fried: Sliced thinly or in strips (like fries) can be a delicious option.
In stews and soups: You can incorporate it into soups or stews with other vegetables or meats.
Desserts: In some cultures, it is used to make desserts, such as cakes, pastries, or pies.
Grilled: