Region of Origin
Commodity:
Yampi
Description & Origin
Yampi is an elongated, cylindrical yam that is slightly tapered at one end. Its skin is smooth and dark brown with deep, light brown cracks. The flesh can range in color from cream to white to pink to purple. It is firm and moist and often described as slippery in texture. Once cooked, the root becomes tender with a slightly dry texture and a mild flavor similar to that of a mild and lightly sweet...
Other Names
Yampee
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Yampi contains protein, iron, vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and dietary fiber. The tropical root is very nutritious and easily digestible.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Yampi can be served by itself as a dish, but it is mainly used as a thickener for chowders, sauces, soups, etc., in the same way cornstarch or heavy cream might be used. It can also be added to doughs. In the Caribbean, yampi is often used to accompany Christmas ham that is served with fruits and ginger.
Flavor Pairings
Ginger, Pineapple, Garlic, Onions, Carrots, Turmeric, Coconut Milk, Shrimp
How to Prepare
Scrub yampi clean. Cut away all the outer brown skin. The inner white flesh can be cubed or shredded and boiled, fried, or baked. Note that yampi must be cooked, as it contains toxic compounds that are removed by thorough heating.
How to Store in the Kitchen
Yampi should be stored at room temperature in an area with good air flow.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
Yampi lasts for a long time, if stored properly.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
60-65°F
TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
55-60°F (Warm Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
Yampi is slightly sensitive to chilling injury.
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
85-95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Unknown
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Unknown
Quality Assessment
Yampi should be firm. The skin is ridged and rough. The roots should be free from soft spots, decay, or mechanical damage.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, yampi may last up to 2-3 weeks.
