Inspect the Cross-Section of the Sweet Potato
When purchasing large sweet potatoes, sellers often cut them in half to facilitate the transaction. When making your selection, pay attention to the cross-section of the potato. If the cut surface has a lot of striations, it indicates a high-quality potato with a good balance of dryness and stickiness. On the other hand, if the cut surface has fewer striations and larger gaps, the potato is likely to be low in starch and may not meet flavor standards.
Assess the Quality of the Sweet Potato Skin
After harvest, sweet potatoes are usually covered in a layer of soil. If this soil is still moist and firmly attached to the surface, it indicates that the potato is fresh. Conversely, if the soil is dry and hard or there is no dirt on the potato, it is likely that the potato has been stored for a long time, and the flesh inside may have started to dry out, affecting its taste. Especially if the surface of the potato shows signs of damage or decay, it is best to avoid purchasing it as it may pose health risks.
Observe the Eyes of the Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes typically have numerous small eyes on their surface. The greater the number of eyes, the more likely the potato will have a rich and delicious flavor. Conversely, if the potato has fewer or smaller eyes, it may not meet flavor expectations. Therefore, it is best to avoid choosing sweet potatoes with these characteristics to ensure the best-tasting dishes.
Choose by Weight
When buying sweet potatoes, weight is also an important selection criterion. If the potatoes are of similar size, opt for the lighter one. Lighter potatoes tend to have less water content, resulting in a higher starch concentration, which translates to a fluffier and tastier texture. Some people mistakenly believe that heavier potatoes are better, but in reality, heavier potatoes often contain more water, which can lead to a starchy and unsatisfactory texture. Therefore, choosing lighter sweet potatoes will generally result in better-tasting dishes.
With these secrets in hand, you’ll be able to select fresh and delicious sweet potatoes to create a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Happy cooking and bon appétit!