Organic Yam
Roots
Nutri-ScoreA

Organic Yam

Dioscorea spp.

Clinical Encyclopedia

Organic yam is a starchy root vegetable known for its rich nutrient profile and versatility in cooking. It is a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
Yam (General)Dioscorea (Scientific)
Scientific NameDioscorea spp.
Region of OriginWest Africa

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories118 kcal
Water
77.2%
Fiber4.1g
Total29.6g
Protein
1.5g(5%)
Fats
0.2g(1%)
Carbohydrates
27.9g(94%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A14 µg (2%)
Vitamin C17.1 mg (19%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.4 mg (3%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.3 mg (6%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Folate18 µg (5%)
Choline17.6 mg (3%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 1.2 µgVitamin B12: 0 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Phosphorus34 mg (5%)
Potassium816 mg (17%)
Zinc0.3 mg (3%)
Copper0.2 mg (10%)
Manganese0.2 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.6 µg

Health Benefits

Rich in dietary fiber, organic yam supports digestive health and helps maintain a healthy weight.
Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Organic yam can be boiled, baked, or mashed. It is best to peel and cook it thoroughly to enhance its flavor and digestibility.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, unblemished yams with no signs of sprouting or soft spots.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dark place, ideally in a paper bag to allow for air circulation.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Anti-inflammatoryAntioxidantDigestive aid
Main Applications
Used in traditional medicine for digestive issues
Promoted for its anti-inflammatory properties
Bioactive Compounds
Diosgenin

May have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

How to Consume
Cooked, Mashed, Baked, Boiled
Did you know?

"Yams are often confused with sweet potatoes, but they are botanically different and have distinct flavors and textures."

Myths vs Realities

MythYams and sweet potatoes are the same.
RealityYams and sweet potatoes are different species with distinct flavors and textures.
MythOrganic yam has no nutritional benefits.
RealityOrganic yam is nutrient-dense, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
MythYou can eat yam raw.
RealityRaw yam can contain toxins and should always be cooked before consumption.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Roasted Organic Yam Wedges

These crispy roasted yam wedges are seasoned with a blend of spices for a flavorful, healthy snack or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium organic yams, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2. In a large bowl, toss the yam wedges with olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the wedges on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Organic Yam and Black Bean Salad

A refreshing salad combining roasted organic yams and black beans, packed with protein and fiber.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium organic yam, cubed
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the yam cubes for 20 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the roasted yams, black beans, red bell pepper, and red onion.
  3. 3. Drizzle with lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

Creamy Organic Yam Soup

A velvety soup made with organic yams and coconut milk, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium organic yams, peeled and chopped
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add the chopped yams, vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until yams are tender.
  3. 3. Blend the mixture until smooth, stir in coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Organic Yam Pancakes

Deliciously fluffy pancakes made with organic yams, perfect for a healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed organic yams
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the mashed yams, whole wheat flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
  2. 2. Add almond milk and maple syrup, stirring until just combined.
  3. 3. Cook on a preheated skillet over medium heat until bubbles form, then flip and cook until golden brown.

Organic Yam and Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious bowl featuring roasted organic yams and quinoa, topped with a tangy dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium organic yam, cubed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the yam cubes for 25 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, spinach, and roasted yams.
  3. 3. Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and salt, then drizzle over the bowl before serving.

Organic Yam and Chickpea Curry

A hearty and flavorful curry made with organic yams and chickpeas, perfect for a wholesome dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium organic yam, diced
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté the onion until soft, then add the diced yam and curry powder, cooking for a few minutes.
  2. 2. Stir in the chickpeas and coconut milk, bringing to a simmer.
  3. 3. Cook until the yam is tender, then season with salt and serve with rice.

Organic Yam and Spinach Frittata

A protein-packed frittata featuring organic yams and fresh spinach, ideal for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium organic yam, grated
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and sauté the grated yam until slightly softened.
  3. 3. Whisk the eggs, add spinach, feta, salt, and pepper, then pour over the yam and cook until the edges set. Transfer to the oven and bake until fully set.

Organic Yam and Lentil Stew

A comforting stew made with organic yams and lentils, packed with nutrients and flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium organic yam, diced
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and carrot until soft.
  2. 2. Add the diced yam, lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, bringing to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer until lentils and yam are tender, about 30 minutes.

Organic Yam and Avocado Toast

A trendy and nutritious toast topped with creamy avocado and roasted organic yam slices.

Ingredients
  • 1 medium organic yam, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, mashed
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast yam slices for 20 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  3. 3. Spread mashed avocado on the toast, top with roasted yam slices, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Organic Yam Smoothie Bowl

A vibrant smoothie bowl featuring organic yams, perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup cooked organic yam
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter
  • Toppings: granola, berries, and seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine cooked yam, banana, almond milk, and almond butter until smooth.
  2. 2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with granola, berries, and seeds for added texture and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is organic yam?

Organic yam is a type of yam grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, ensuring a more natural product.

How do you cook organic yam?

Organic yam can be boiled, baked, or mashed. Ensure to peel it before cooking for better taste.

Is organic yam healthy?

Yes, organic yam is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy addition to your diet.

Can you eat yam raw?

No, yams should be cooked before consumption as raw yam can contain toxins.

What are the benefits of eating organic yam?

Organic yam supports digestive health, provides energy, and contains antioxidants.

How should you store organic yam?

Store organic yam in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.

Can organic yam help with weight loss?

Yes, due to its high fiber content, organic yam can help you feel full longer, aiding in weight management.

Is there a difference between yam and sweet potato?

Yes, yams are starchier and drier than sweet potatoes, which are sweeter and moister.