Japanese yams, also known as satsumaimo, are a staple in Japanese cuisine and have gained popularity around the world for their unique flavor and health benefits. These root vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal. In this article, we will explore a delicious and easy-to-make Japanese yams recipe that will have you adding this versatile ingredient to your grocery list every week.
One of the most versatile vegetables in Japanese cuisine, yams are a staple ingredient in many dishes. With their sweet and nutty flavor, they can be used in both savory and sweet recipes, making them a popular choice for many home cooks. In this recipe, we'll be roasting Japanese yams to perfection and serving them as a delicious side dish that is suitable for paleo, Whole30, and vegan diets.
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Steamed Japanese Yams with Curry and Lime
Main Ingredients: Japanese Yams, Chopped Cilantro, Fresh Lime Juice
If you're looking for a lighter option for your Japanese yams, this steamed recipe is the perfect choice. The yams are steamed until tender and then tossed in a flavorful mix of curry and lime juice. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal.
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Okonomiyaki (Savory Japanese Pancake)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Corn Starch, Baking Powder, Salt
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese dish that literally translates to "grilled as you like it." This savory pancake is made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cabbage, and can be customized with various toppings such as meats, seafood, vegetables, and more. In this recipe, we'll be using Japanese yams as the main ingredient, giving the okonomiyaki a unique and delicious flavor.
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Simply Roasted Japanese Yams with Greek Dipping Sauce
Main Ingredients: Japanese Yams, Sea Salt, Water, Olive Oil, Vinegar
For a simple yet delicious way to enjoy Japanese yams, try this recipe for roasted yams with a Greek-inspired dipping sauce. The yams are roasted until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and then served with a tangy and creamy sauce made with Greek yogurt, lemon, and herbs. This dish is perfect as a side dish or a healthy snack.
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Perfect Tempura
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Yam, Onion, Eggplant, Shrimps, Canola
Tempura is a classic Japanese dish that features battered and deep-fried seafood, vegetables, and other ingredients. While it may seem intimidating to make at home, this recipe for perfect tempura will guide you through the process step by step, ensuring crispy and delicious results every time. In this version, we'll be using Japanese yams as the star ingredient, giving the tempura a unique twist.
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Baked Candied Yams - Soul Food Style
Main Ingredients: Yams, Salted Butter, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg
This recipe puts a soul food spin on the classic candied yams dish. The yams are baked in a sweet and sticky sauce made with butter, brown sugar, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The result is a comforting and indulgent side dish that is perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals.
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Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Brown Sugar, Ground Nutmeg, Butter, Mini
For a more traditional take on candied yams, try this recipe that uses a simple yet delicious combination of butter, brown sugar, and a splash of orange juice. The yams are baked until tender and glazed in a sweet and sticky sauce that is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Southern-style candied yams are a staple at many holiday meals and family gatherings. This recipe stays true to the classic version, using a combination of butter, brown sugar, and warm spices to create a sweet and comforting dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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The Best EVER Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Butter, Dark Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar
This recipe claims to make the best candied yams ever, and we have to agree. The yams are coated in a delicious brown sugar and butter glaze, and then baked until tender and caramelized. The addition of a secret ingredient, a splash of vanilla extract, takes these candied yams to the next level.
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Slow Cooker Southern Candied Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Cornstarch, White Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar
If you want to free up some oven space during the holidays, this slow cooker recipe for Southern candied yams is the perfect solution. The yams are cooked low and slow in a sweet and sticky glaze made with butter, brown sugar, and warming spices. The result is a tender and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort.
This hearty and comforting vegetable stew is a popular dish in Japan, especially during the colder months. It features a mix of vegetables, including Japanese yams, simmered in a flavorful broth made with dashi, soy sauce, and sake. This stew is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a warm and satisfying meal.
Nikujaga is a classic Japanese dish that translates to "meat and potatoes." This comforting stew is made with a mix of vegetables, including Japanese yams, and thinly sliced beef, all simmered in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. It's a popular dish in Japanese households and is perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
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Gomoku Gohan (Japanese Mixed Rice)
Main Ingredients: Rice, Lotus Roots, Carrot, Aburaage, Dried Shiitake
Gomoku gohan is a type of Japanese mixed rice dish that is a popular comfort food. It's made by combining rice with a mix of vegetables, including Japanese yams, and sometimes meat or seafood. In this recipe, the rice is cooked in a flavorful broth, resulting in a fragrant and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a standalone meal.
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Vegan Tamagoyaki (Japanese Rolled Omlette)
Main Ingredients: Silken Tofu, Nagaimo, Japanese Soy Sauce, Mirin, Kombu
Tamagoyaki is a popular Japanese dish that translates to "grilled egg." It's a type of rolled omelette that is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. In this vegan version, we'll be using tofu instead of eggs, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet. The addition of Japanese yams adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic dish.
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Roasted Japanese Sweet Potatoes with Miso Butter
Main Ingredients: Japanese Sweet Potatoes, Olive Oil, Butter, White Miso
Roasted Japanese sweet potatoes are a popular snack or side dish in Japan. In this recipe, we'll be elevating them by adding a miso butter glaze that takes them to the next level. The salty and savory miso pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the yams, making this a delicious and unique dish.
This recipe puts a Japanese twist on the classic sweet and sour chicken dish. The chicken is coated in a crispy batter and then tossed in a tangy and sweet sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and honey. The addition of Japanese yams adds a delicious and unexpected element to this popular dish.
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Japanese Vegetable Soup (Kenchinjiru)
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Carrot, Daikon, Pie, Shimeji Mushrooms
Kenchinjiru is a hearty and nutritious vegetable soup that is popular in Japan, especially during the colder months. It features a mix of vegetables, including Japanese yams, cooked in a flavorful broth made with dashi, soy sauce, and sake. This soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
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Miso Glazed Japanese Sweet Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Japanese Sweet Potatoes, Canola Oil, Freshly Ground
This recipe takes roasted Japanese sweet potatoes to a whole new level with a delicious miso glaze. The sweet and nutty flavor of the yams pairs perfectly with the salty and savory miso, creating a unique and delicious side dish that is sure to impress. It's also a great option for those following a gluten-free or vegan diet.
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Japanese Mountain Yam (Nagaimo) Salad
Main Ingredients: Nagaimo, Bonito Flakes, Daikon Sprouts
Japanese mountain yam, also known as nagaimo, is a type of yam that is popular in Japanese cuisine. In this recipe, we'll be using it to create a refreshing and healthy salad. The yam is grated and then mixed with various vegetables and a tangy dressing, resulting in a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer.
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Skinny Mashed Yams
Main Ingredients: Yams, Ground Cinnamon, Sea Salt, Water, Butter, Pepper
For a healthier take on mashed yams, try this recipe that uses Greek yogurt instead of butter and cream. The result is a light and creamy side dish that is still packed with flavor. The addition of Japanese yams adds a unique twist to this classic side dish.
The Nutritional Benefits of Japanese Yams
Japanese yams, or satsumaimo, are not only delicious but also extremely nutritious. They are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. This makes them a great addition to any diet, especially for those looking to improve their overall health. Japanese yams are also low in calories and have a low glycemic index, making them a great option for those watching their weight or managing diabetes.
Incorporating Japanese Yams into Your Diet
One of the most popular ways to enjoy Japanese yams is by roasting them. Simply peel and chop the yams into bite-sized pieces, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Roast in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown. You can also add other seasonings such as garlic powder, thyme, or rosemary for added flavor.
An Easy and Delicious Recipe: Japanese Yam Salad
For a refreshing and nutritious side dish, try making a Japanese yam salad. Simply boil peeled and chopped yams in water for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and let cool. In a separate bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey to make a dressing. Toss the cooled yams in the dressing, along with diced cucumbers, red onion, and sesame seeds. This salad is not only full of flavor but also provides a healthy serving of vegetables and nutrients.
Conclusion
Incorporating Japanese yams into your diet is a simple and delicious way to improve your overall health. Whether roasted, boiled, or used in a salad, these root vegetables offer a unique flavor and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. So next time you're in the grocery store, don't forget to pick up some Japanese yams and try out these easy and nutritious recipes.
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