Yams are one of the most popular tuber vegetables with tremendous culinary versatility. Native to Africa and Asia, yams are now cultivated just about everywhere in the world today. This vegetable also packs a high content of valuable nutrients. From minerals to vitamins to complex carbs, you’ll definitely want to incorporate yams into your daily meals.

Yam Health Benefits

Although yam has a relatively low in protein, it is loaded with complex carbohydrates which help fuel your body’s energy production, allowing you to conserve protein for other uses.

Yams are an amazing source of Vitamin C and Vitamin B6, as well as minerals including manganese, potassium, and copper, all of which are essential nutrients. Manganese help with detoxification; potassium assist in muscle reparation; and copper aids protein production.

The low-fat and high-fibre characteristics of this vegetable also mean you’re eating clean! Although fibre is not digestible, it is essential in keeping a healthy digestive tract and correlates with a low risk of certain cancers, diabetes, and obesity.

Beyond the health benefits are its supreme versatility. From soups, to fries, to mashed yam, or even on its own baked, there are endless healthy and delicious dishes you can make.

Here are five yam sides that everyone will love.

1. Yam Puffs

2. Yam Leek Soup

3. Crispy Garlic Yam Wedge Fries

4. Jamaican Yam Casserole

5. Coconut Garlic Potatoes and Yam Mash

What are your thoughts on this starchy tuber vegetable? Share with us your favourite recipes!