These yellow or orange tubers are elongated with ends that taper to a point. Fresh sweet potatoes are available sporadically throughout the year. In this area, the months of May through September are the peak of the growing season. They are also available in the supermarket year round, frozen or canned. Fresh sweet potatoes may also be home canned or frozen for longer storage.
Sweet potatoes are relatively low in calories and have no fat or cholesterol.
They are rich in beta-carotene, having five times the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A in one sweet potato, as well as loaded with potassium. Sweet potatoes generally do not store well except under ideal conditions, and bruised ones deteriorate rapidly. Otherwise, store in a cool dark place and use within a week. Do not refrigerate. Sweet potatoes also make a delicious and nutritious ingredient in soups, breads and desserts.