There is a bit of confusion when it comes to the yam. A true yam is a starchy edible root generally imported to the United States from the Caribbean. It is rough and scaly and very low in beta carotene. They have a moist texture, orange flesh and a sweet flavor. Other varieties of sweet potatoes are smooth, with skins that can vary in color, depending on the variety, from pale yellow to deep purple to vivid orange.
Flesh colors can range from light yellow to pink, red or orange.
Try a slaw made with sweet potatoes. Substitute sweet potatoes for cabbage in your favorite cole slaw recipe. Try mashed sweet potatoes instead of pumpkin in your favorite pie recipe. Make baked sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes. Sweet potatoes are much healthier and they are delicious topped with cinnamon and brown sugar.