Sweet potato

Description

Sweet potato, or batat, has a moist, creamy flesh with a sweet-nutty flavor and a smooth skin that comes in shades of orange, purple, and cream. Its texture is both creamy when baked and "starchy" when boiled, making it a versatile ingredient for everything from puree to fries and desserts. Sweet potato pairs wonderfully with spices, chili, cumin, herbs, as well as coconut and citrus flavors. Nutritionally, sweet potato is rich in beta-carotene (provitamin A), vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, providing support for vision, the immune system, and gut health, with a moderate glycemic index in typical portions. It is best stored in a cool, dark, and dry place at a temperature of about 10–15°C, in a ventilated basket, away from potatoes; it is not recommended to store raw tubers in the refrigerator, while cooked ones should be consumed within 3–5 days or frozen for longer storage.