Yams, originating from Africa and Asia, are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Packed with vitamins and minerals, they provide a healthy carbohydrate option for those looking to explore new culinary horizons or add variety to the dinner table. In this article, we’ll explore three ways to cook yams on the stove – boiling, frying, and steaming – each offering a unique flavor profile and texture for your taste buds to savor.

1. Boiling Yams

Boiling is a quick and easy method for cooking yams that preserves their natural sweetness while creating a soft texture perfect for mashing or serving as a side dish.

– Start by peeling your yams and cutting them into even-sized chunks.

– Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.

– Add the yam chunks to the boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.

– Drain the yams well before serving or mashing.

Optional: For additional flavor, you can add some butter or olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of cinnamon to taste after draining the yams.

2. Frying Yams

For those seeking a crispy exterior with a soft interior, frying is an ideal cooking method. Fried yams make a delicious appetizer or side dish.

– Peel the yams and cut them into wedges or slices.

– Add some vegetable oil or butter to a frying pan over medium heat. Make sure there is enough oil in the pan to cover the bottom evenly.

– Place the yam pieces in a single layer in the heated pan, taking care not to overcrowd them.

– Fry for 7-10 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

– Transfer cooked yam pieces onto paper towels to drain excess oil before serving.

Optional: Try seasoning your fried yams with spices such as paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder for an extra kick.

3. Steaming Yams

Steaming yams is another healthy option that maintains their nutritional integrity while delivering a tender texture.

– Peel and chop the yams into even-sized chunks.

– Prepare a steamer basket by either placing it in a pot with a small amount of water or fitting it into your pot with a lid.

– Place the yam chunks in the steamer basket in a single layer, ensuring that water does not touch the bottom of the basket.

– Bring the water to boil, lower the heat to simmer, cover the pot, and steam yams for 15-25 minutes until fork-tender.

– Carefully transfer the cooked yams to a plate before serving.

Optional: Give your steamed yams extra flavor by tossing them with herbs such as rosemary and thyme or by drizzling them with some melted butter and chopped parsley.

Whichever method you choose for cooking your yams on the stove, you’re sure to end up with a tasty side dish that showcases their natural sweetness and versatility. Enjoy experimenting in your kitchen and discovering new ways to savor this nutritious staple!