Often confused with sweet potatoes, yams are actually a tropical tuber that contain higher sugar and moisture contents.
Colors vary from white to purple to dark brown, and sizes range from tiny to gargantuan.
They can be difficult to find in the U.S., but if found, select those with unwrinkled skin. A relatively new variety in markets. They have a moise smooth texture and are great for mashed potatoes. The skin and flesh of a Yukon Gold ranges from buttery yellow to gold.