Cooking new yam
New yams! A delicious and nutritious staple in many West African and Caribbean cuisines. Here's a simple recipe to cook new yams:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 new yams (depending on size and number of servings desired)
- Water or broth
- Salt (optional)
- Any additional seasonings you like (e.g., garlic, ginger, onions, chili peppers)
Instructions:
- Choose fresh new yams: Select new yams that are firm, smooth, and free of bruises or soft spots.
- Wash and peel: Wash the new yams thoroughly, then peel them using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife.
- Cut into pieces: Cut the peeled new yams into bite-sized pieces, such as cubes, slices, or wedges.
- Boil or steam: Place the new yam pieces in a large pot or steamer basket. Add enough water or broth to cover the yams. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Season: Add salt and any additional seasonings you like to the cooking water or broth.
- Serve: Serve the cooked new yams hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Alternative cooking methods:
- Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the new yam pieces with a little oil, salt, and any desired seasonings. Roast in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the new yam pieces with oil and season with salt and any desired seasonings. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
- Frying: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the new yam pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Tips and variations:
- Use a pressure cooker to cook new yams quickly and easily.
- Add aromatics like onions, garlic, and ginger to the cooking water for extra flavor.
- Try boiling or steaming new yams with other ingredients like potatoes, carrots, or sweet potatoes for a hearty and flavorful side dish.
- Experiment with different seasonings and spices, such as cumin, coriander, or paprika, to give your new yams a unique flavor.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious new yams!