African Yam – Fried Puna Yam

African Yam (fried puna Yam) – Deep-fried to a crispy, golden brown exterior while remaining tender inside, known for its delicious taste and crunchy texture. This recipe is a delicious twist on the traditional fried yams I grew up with.

African Yam (fried puna Yam)

African yam used in this recipe is different from orange-fleshed Sweet potatoes in the United States. Though they are both root crops, they are different species and have different backgrounds and uses.

The African yam is native to Africa and some parts of Asia. It is also referred to as puna yam or true yam. They have dark brown rough skin with off-white flesh and come in different varieties.

Yams are starchy tubers (starchier and drier than sweet potatoes). They have an almost black bark-like skin with white to off-white flesh and come in many varieties. They can be as small as regular potatoes and grow to about five feet long.

African yam can also be used for pounded yam, yam porridge, boiled yam, and much more.

Fried Yam

In the recent past, a fast-food chain came up with this brilliant idea of coating the Yams with a batter made with spicy egg and flour mixture, and they called it ”Yamarita”. Such a cool name. I have to say that the outcome is amazing!

What you’ll love about Fried Yam 

• Irresistible Crispy Texture
• Delicious Flavor
• Versatile snack
• Simple preparation
• Pairs well with various dips and sauces
• Gluten-free option

How to make Fried African Yam

• Peel and cut the yam
• Season very well
• Heat the oil in a deep frying pan
• Fry the seasoned yam until golden brown and crispy
• Drain excess oil and serve with dipping sauces like ketchup, hot sauce, or spicy pepper sauce.
• Enjoy the dish immediately while it’s still hot and crispy.

Where to buy African Yams

If you live outside Africa like the united states, the best place to find African yams will be the ethnic market or online stores.

This is an excellent recipe to try if you are looking for something different from the traditional fried yams. It is best enjoyed when dipped in the African all-purpose sauce and can be served alongside grilled chicken, steak, or grilled fish.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wth3IziADfI

Other African Yam recipes you might want to try:

• Yam Porridge
• Yam porridge and plantains
• Pounded Yam

Let’s Connect.

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If you make this African fried Yam, I’d love to see pictures of your creations on Instagram or Facebook. #cheflolaskitchen