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Raw Sweet Potato
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Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Sweet Potato

Ipomoea batatas

Clinical Encyclopedia

Raw sweet potatoes are a nutritious root vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are known for their sweet flavor and versatility in culinary applications.

Also known as:
Yam (USA)Batata (Brazil)
Scientific NameIpomoea batatas
Region of OriginCentral and South America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories86 kcal
Water
77.3%
Fiber3g
Total21.8g
Protein
1.6g(7%)
Fats
0.1g(0%)
Carbohydrates
20.1g(92%)

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 A14187 IU (283%)
Vitamin C2.4 mg (3%)
Vitamin E0.26 mg (2%)
Vitamin K1.8 mcg (2%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.6 mg (4%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.8 mg (8%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Folate11 mcg (3%)
Choline20.1 mg (4%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin D: 0 IUVitamin B12: 0 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium30 mg (3%)
Iron0.6 mg (3%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Phosphorus47 mg (5%)
Potassium337 mg (10%)
Zinc0.3 mg (2%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Manganese0.2 mg (10%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.6 mcg

Health Benefits

Rich in beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, supporting vision, immune function, and skin health.
High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

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

How to Prepare & Consume

Raw sweet potatoes can be eaten raw in salads or smoothies, or cooked by boiling, baking, or steaming to enhance their sweetness and digestibility.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, smooth sweet potatoes without blemishes or soft spots. Look for vibrant color, which indicates freshness.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dark place, ideally in a breathable bag or basket to prevent moisture buildup.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Digestive
Main Applications
Promoting eye health
Supporting digestive health
Bioactive Compounds
Beta-carotene

A precursor to vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function.

Anthocyanins

Antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

How to Consume
Raw, Boiled, Baked, Steamed
Did you know?

"Sweet potatoes are not related to regular potatoes and are actually part of the morning glory family."

Myths vs Realities

MythSweet potatoes are the same as yams.
RealitySweet potatoes and yams are different; yams are starchy tubers from a different plant family.
MythYou should avoid sweet potatoes if you're trying to lose weight.
RealitySweet potatoes can be part of a weight loss diet due to their fiber content and low glycemic index.
MythAll sweet potatoes are orange.
RealitySweet potatoes come in various colors, including purple, yellow, and white.

Healthy Recipes

Raw Sweet Potato Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A refreshing salad featuring shredded raw sweet potatoes, vibrant greens, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette for a nutritious boost.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw sweet potato, shredded
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded sweet potatoes and mixed greens.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad, toss well, and serve immediately.

Raw Sweet Potato Sushi Rolls

Delicious sushi rolls made with raw sweet potato, avocado, and cucumber, wrapped in nori for a healthy twist on traditional sushi.

Ingredients
  • 1 large raw sweet potato, cut into thin strips
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 4 sheets nori
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down.
  2. 2. Arrange a layer of sweet potato strips, avocado slices, and cucumber on the nori.
  3. 3. Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce.

Raw Sweet Potato and Kale Slaw

A crunchy slaw made with raw sweet potatoes and kale, dressed with a creamy tahini dressing for a nutrient-packed side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw sweet potato, julienned
  • 2 cups kale, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the julienned sweet potato and chopped kale.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the slaw, mix well, and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Raw Sweet Potato Hummus

A vibrant and nutritious twist on traditional hummus, made with raw sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and tahini for a creamy dip.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup raw sweet potato, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine raw sweet potato, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh veggies or whole grain crackers.

Raw Sweet Potato and Avocado Toast

A nutritious open-faced sandwich featuring raw sweet potato slices topped with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of seeds.

Ingredients
  • 1 large raw sweet potato, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, mashed
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Arrange the raw sweet potato slices on a plate.
  2. 2. Spread the mashed avocado over each slice, season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Sprinkle with pumpkin and sesame seeds before serving.

Raw Sweet Potato Energy Bites

Nutritious energy bites made with raw sweet potato, oats, and nut butter, perfect for a healthy snack on the go.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup raw sweet potato, grated
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix together grated sweet potato, rolled oats, almond butter, honey, and chia seeds.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before enjoying.

Raw Sweet Potato and Beetroot Carpaccio

A visually stunning dish featuring thinly sliced raw sweet potatoes and beetroots, drizzled with a balsamic reduction.

Ingredients
  • 1 large raw sweet potato, thinly sliced
  • 1 large raw beetroot, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Arrange the sweet potato and beetroot slices on a serving platter.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and garnish with fresh herbs.

Raw Sweet Potato and Cabbage Wraps

Healthy wraps made with raw sweet potato and crunchy cabbage, served with a spicy peanut sauce for dipping.

Ingredients
  • 2 large raw sweet potatoes, grated
  • 1 cup cabbage, shredded
  • 1/4 cup peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • Lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine grated sweet potatoes and shredded cabbage.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, and sriracha to make the dipping sauce.
  3. 3. Spoon the sweet potato mixture onto lettuce leaves, wrap, and serve with the sauce.

Raw Sweet Potato Smoothie

A creamy and nutritious smoothie featuring raw sweet potato, banana, and almond milk, perfect for a healthy breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup raw sweet potato, peeled and chopped
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine raw sweet potato, banana, almond milk, almond butter, and cinnamon.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more almond milk if needed.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Raw Sweet Potato and Apple Salad

A crunchy salad combining raw sweet potatoes and crisp apples, tossed in a light lemon dressing for a refreshing side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups raw sweet potato, julienned
  • 1 large apple, diced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the julienned sweet potato and diced apple.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and honey.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss in the walnuts, and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you eat raw sweet potatoes?

Yes, raw sweet potatoes can be eaten, but they are often cooked for better flavor and digestibility.

Are sweet potatoes healthier than regular potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are generally considered healthier due to their higher vitamin A content and lower glycemic index.

How should sweet potatoes be stored?

Store sweet potatoes in a cool, dark place to prolong their shelf life.

Do sweet potatoes have gluten?

No, sweet potatoes are naturally gluten-free.

What nutrients are in sweet potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and several B vitamins, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese.

Can sweet potatoes help with weight loss?

Yes, their high fiber content can help you feel full longer, aiding in weight management.

Are sweet potatoes good for diabetics?

In moderation, sweet potatoes can be beneficial for diabetics due to their lower glycemic index compared to regular potatoes.

How do you prepare sweet potatoes for baking?

Wash, peel if desired, and cut into wedges or cubes before baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes.