How to cook new yam

New yams! A delicious and nutritious staple in many West African and Caribbean cuisines. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to cook new yams:

Choosing the right new yams:

Cooking methods:

Boiling:
- Wash the new yams thoroughly and dry them with a clean cloth.
- Place the yams in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the yams are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the water and serve the yams hot.
Steaming:
- Wash and dry the new yams as above.
- Place the yams in a steamer basket over boiling water.
- Cover the pot with a lid and steam the yams for 30-40 minutes, or until they're tender when pierced with a fork.
- Serve the yams hot.
Roasting:
- Wash and dry the new yams as above.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the yams into wedges or cubes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle with a little oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices.
- Roast the yams in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until they're tender and caramelized.
Frying:
- Wash and dry the new yams as above.
- Cut the yams into thin slices or cubes.
- Heat about 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the yams in batches until they're golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per batch.
- Drain the fried yams on paper towels and serve hot.

Tips and variations:

To add flavor to your cooked new yams, try adding aromatics like onions, garlic, ginger, or chili peppers to the boiling water or steaming basket.
For a sweet and savory twist, try roasting the yams with a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
New yams can also be mashed, pureed, or made into a delicious soup or stew.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious new yams!