The world of root vegetables just got a whole lot more colorful! The purple yam is a vibrantly beautiful sweet potato with a taste to match. Called Kand in India and Ube in the Philippines, this Southeast Asian tuber has exploded in popularity in recent years, gracing everything from ice cream to savory dishes. It is well known for its health benefits too! But what exactly is a purple yam, and why should you add it to your culinary repertoire?
A Tropical Treasure
The purple yam is a member of the yam family but is sometimes confused with taro root. Unlike its brown-skinned brethren, Kand boasts a vibrant violet-purple flesh that comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants. These pigments not only give Ube its stunning color but may also offer health benefits like reducing blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Finding and Using Purple Yam
Finding Kand at your local grocery store can be like a treasure hunt, though it is now available here at our Lotus Market Indian grocery store. Fresh Kand has a soft, brown exterior and may need some effort to peel. These unique root vegetables offer a delightful balance of subtle sweetness and earthy richness, making them perfect for classic dishes and creative culinary adventures. From creamy mashed yams to desserts and savory stews.
Here are some ideas to get you started with Kand:
- Fries
- Purple Yam Curry
- Kebab
- Kand Pakoda
- and more!
Delicious Surprise – Don’t be afraid to try ube in savory dishes. It can add something special to soups, stews, or gnocchi.
With its stunning color, pleasant taste, and potential health benefits, yams are an interesting product to explore. So the next time you’re looking for a way to add a tropical twist to your cooking, look for the delicious Ube!
Purchase Purple Yams at Lotus Market where you will find other interesting items too! We are located behind Lotus Cuisine of India at 805 5th Ave. in downtown San Rafael with plenty of free parking.
