FOOD NEWS
Murasaki Sweet Potatoes Are On A Whole New Tier Of Tenderness
BY CLARICE KNELLY
Whether mashed, baked, or fried, sweet potatoes are just as versatile as standard potatoes, but if you want a sweeter, more tender potato for eating alone, try the Murasaki breed.
Japanese sweet potatoes, or Ipomoea batatas 'Murasaki,’ are smaller than other sweet potatoes, with dark purple skin and white or golden flesh that is exceptionally creamy.
The Murasaki potato originally comes from Asia, but has since been cultivated around the world thanks to its tender flesh and sweet, nuanced flavor.
Although quite sweet, Murasaki potatoes also have a rich earthiness and savory, chestnut-like nuttiness, making them perfect for both sweet and savory meals.
Moreover, because the tubers have a higher starch content and thus less moisture, they’re perfect for roasting and baking. However, they can also be mashed, fried, or boiled.
Today, Murasaki potatoes are grown in US states like Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, and California, so these areas are an American's best bet for finding the tubers.
Despite their sweet taste, Murasakis are still quite healthy, and are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium, iron, fiber, and antioxidants.