A Powerhouse of Nutrition
Sweet potatoes pack a powerful nutritional punch. They are loaded with beta carotene and vitamins A, C and E - antioxidants that can help prevent heart disease and cancer, bolster the immune system and even slow aging by promoting good vision and healthy skin.
Here are some more examples of the sweet potato's nutritional superiority:
- Sweet potatoes are fat- and cholesterol-free. They are low in sodium, too.
- When eaten with the skin, they have more fiber than oatmeal.
- Sweet potatoes offer many other essential nutrients including vitamin B-6, iron and potassium.
- All this for about 130 calories per medium sweet potato.
A Versatile Vegetable
Sweet potatoes are not just a holiday dish. This versatile vegetable, which can be eaten raw or cooked, is perfect any time of the year. Sweet potatoes are excellent accompaniments to poultry, pork, beef lamb or seafood. They can also be substituted in virtually any recipe that calls for apples, squash or potatoes. Available all year round, sweet potatoes are most abundant from September through June.
Selection and Storage
When buying sweet potatoes, select firm, well-shaped roots; avoid those with soft spots or any signs of decay Handle them carefully to prevent bruising.
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area (55 degrees F with low humidity is best) and use within one to two weeks after purchase. Do not refrigerate sweet potatoes unless they've been cooked. Cold temperatures can cause them to become bitter.