How to Cook and Store African Yam (Puna Yam)

How to Cook and Store African Yam (Puna Yam)

A Simple Guide to Making and Preserving One of Africa’s Favorite Staples

Introduction to African Yam (Puna Yam): What Is Yam

Let us clear up a common misconception: yam is not a sweet potato.

While they may be confused in some parts of the world, true yams are a tuberous root vegetable and a staple in many African households.

Yam belongs to the Dioscorea species and is widely consumed across Nigeria and West Africa.

In Nigeria, we call it puna yam or white yam. Nigeria produces over 70 percent of the world’s yams.

Yam is extremely versatile. It can be boiled, fried, roasted, or pounded, and forms the base of many classic dishes.

Boiled Yam Recipe

In this post, I will show you how to cook boiled yam perfectly, plus storage tips, health benefits, and some popular yam-based recipes.

Yam vs Sweet Potato

Although they are often used interchangeably in non-African countries, yam and sweet potato are not the same.

Yams are typically larger, starchier, and less sweet than sweet potatoes. If you search online for yam recipes, you will mostly find sweet potato dishes. Do not be fooled.

Health Benefits of African Yam (Puna Yam)

Yam is not only filling but also nutritious. Here are some reasons to include it in your meals

• Rich in complex carbohydrates for lasting energy
• High in fiber, which helps keep hunger away
• A great source of potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C
• Contains antioxidants that support immune function and reduce inflammation

Tip: Eat in moderation for a balanced diet.

How to Cook Boiled Yam Step by Step

Boiling the yams is one of the easiest and most versatile ways to enjoy this root vegetable. You can eat it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with eggs, stew, or vegetables.

You can also use it to make pounded yam or yam porridge.

How Long to Boil Yam: Time Required

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• One tuber of puna white ya, about one and a half kilograms
• Salt optional
• Water to cover the yam
• Sugar to taste, optional

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Large saucepan or cooking pot

How to Cook Yams Instructions

• Peel the Yam
  Cut the yams into one-inch round slices. If the yam is large, halve the slices so they fit better in the pot. Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut and peel around the edge.
• Rinse and Soak
  Place peeled yam slices into a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.
• Boil the Yam
  Transfer the yam to a pot and add enough water to fully cover it. Add salt and sugar if desired. Boil on medium heat for fifteen to twenty minutes or until a fork pierces the yam easily.
• Drain and Serve
  Once soft, drain immediately to prevent sogginess. Serve hot with your favorite side such as egg sauce, garden egg stew, pepper stew, or omelet.

Tips for Storing African Yam

Proper storage helps reduce waste and ensures you always have yams available when needed.

Storing Raw Yam Whole Tuber

• Keep the unpeeled yam in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight
• It lasts up to seven days or longer if it is dry and firm

Freezing Peeled Yam Slices

• Peel,l wa, sh slice the yam
• Flash freeze in a single layer on a tray to prevent sticking
• Transfer to a ziplock bag and store in the freezer for up to three months
• You can cook or fry directly from frozen without thawing

Rehydrating Dry Yam

If the yam is dry or not in the sea, soak the slices in water overnight or for a few hours before boiling to restore moisture and improve texture.ture

Avoid refrigerating boiled yams

Byamsdoam does not store well in the fridge. It tends to dry out and harden. It is best enjoyed fresh and warm on the same day.

How to Serve Boiled Yam

Boiled yam is a blank canvas and pair well with almost anything. Try it with

• Egg sauce
• Fried pepper stew
• Garden egg stew
• Corned beef stew
• Omelet or fried eggs

You can also mash and pound it to make

• Pounded yam best with Egusi Ogbono or Efo Riro
• Yam porridge is a one-pot meal rich in spices and palm oil
• Yam balls, seasoned mashed yams rolled in breadcrumbs, and fried
• Roasted yams cooked over an open flame or in the oven, served with spicy oil sauce
• Onunu pounded yam and ripe plantain with palm oil, served with native soup

More Cooking Basics You Will Love

Build your Nigerian kitchen skills with these helpful guides

• How to freeze and preserve okra
• Quick chicken stock recipe ideal for yam porridge
• How to fry plantain perfectly
• More Nigerian yam recipes coming soon

The Bottom Line

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, knowing how to cook and store African yam properly allows you to enjoy this staple ingredient in many delicious ways.

With a few simple steps, you can turn yams into a filling and nutritious meal that is perfect any time of day.