Grilled Yam
Roots
Nutri-ScoreA

Grilled Yam

Dioscorea spp.

Clinical Encyclopedia

Grilled yam is a popular dish made from the tuber of the yam plant, known for its starchy texture and rich flavor. It is often enjoyed as a side dish or snack, providing a good source of carbohydrates and essential nutrients.

Also known as:
Yam (General)Dioscorea (Scientific)
Scientific NameDioscorea spp.
Region of OriginWest Africa

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories118 kcal
Water
77.2%
Fiber4.1g
Total29.6g
Protein
1.5g(5%)
Fats
0.2g(1%)
Carbohydrates
27.9g(94%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C17.1 mg (19%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium816 mg (17%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in carbohydrates, grilled yam provides a quick source of energy, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
High in dietary fiber, it aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and potassium, which support immune function and cardiovascular health.
Low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it a heart-healthy option for various diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption may lead to weight gain due to high carbohydrate content if not balanced with physical activity.
!Individuals with certain allergies or sensitivities to yam should avoid it to prevent adverse reactions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled or roasted, yam can be seasoned with herbs and spices for enhanced flavor. Ensure to cook thoroughly to improve digestibility.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, unblemished yams with smooth skin. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots.

How to Store

Store yams in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once cooked, refrigerate in an airtight container.

Myths vs Realities

MythYam is fattening and should be avoided for weight loss.
RealityYam can be part of a balanced diet and, when consumed in moderation, can support weight management due to its fiber content.
MythAll yams are the same and have the same nutritional value.
RealityThere are various species of yam, each with different nutritional profiles and health benefits.
MythCooking yam destroys all its nutrients.
RealityWhile some nutrients may be lost during cooking, grilling yam can preserve many vitamins and minerals.

Healthy Recipes

Grilled Yam and Avocado Salad

A refreshing salad combining smoky grilled yam with creamy avocado and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, peeled and sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
  2. 2. Grill the yam slices for about 5-7 minutes on each side until tender and charred.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine the grilled yam, avocado, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Spicy Grilled Yam Tacos

Delicious tacos filled with spicy grilled yam, topped with fresh salsa and avocado for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, sliced into strips
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 cup fresh salsa
  • 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and season the yam strips with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill the yam strips for about 8-10 minutes until they are tender and have grill marks.
  3. 3. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill, then fill each with grilled yam, fresh salsa, and avocado slices.

Grilled Yam and Chickpea Bowl

A hearty bowl featuring grilled yam, protein-packed chickpeas, and a tahini dressing for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, cubed
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and toss the yam cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill the yam cubes for about 10-12 minutes until tender and slightly charred.
  3. 3. In a bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, and a bit of water to thin. Serve the grilled yam and chickpeas drizzled with tahini dressing and garnished with parsley.

Grilled Yam and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mix of grilled yam, quinoa, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, diced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and grill the diced yam for about 8-10 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix grilled yam, cooked quinoa, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers, top with cheese if desired, and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Grilled Yam and Spinach Frittata

A protein-rich frittata featuring grilled yam and fresh spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, grated
  • 6 eggs
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and grill the grated yam for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir in grilled yam, spinach, and feta.
  3. 3. Pour the mixture into a greased skillet and cook on the grill until set, about 15-20 minutes.

Grilled Yam and Black Bean Salad

A hearty salad with grilled yam, black beans, and a tangy lime vinaigrette, perfect for a filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, cubed
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and toss yam cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill the yam cubes for about 10-12 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. In a bowl, combine grilled yam, black beans, red onion, lime juice, and olive oil. Toss gently to combine.

Grilled Yam and Coconut Curry

A fragrant coconut curry featuring grilled yam, served over brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, cubed
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and grill the yam cubes for about 10 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. In a pot, combine coconut milk, curry powder, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
  3. 3. Add grilled yam to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Serve over brown rice and garnish with cilantro.

Grilled Yam and Zucchini Skewers

Colorful skewers of grilled yam and zucchini, drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a tasty side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, cut into cubes
  • 2 zucchinis, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and thread yam and zucchini onto skewers, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until tender.
  3. 3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Grilled Yam and Hummus Wrap

A nutritious wrap filled with grilled yam, hummus, and fresh veggies, perfect for a quick lunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, sliced
  • 1 cup hummus
  • 4 whole grain wraps
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and grill yam slices for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. Spread hummus on each wrap, layer with grilled yam, mixed greens, and cucumber slices.
  3. 3. Roll up the wraps tightly and slice in half to serve.

Grilled Yam and Pesto Flatbread

A delicious flatbread topped with grilled yam, fresh pesto, and arugula for a healthy appetizer or snack.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium yams, sliced
  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 4 whole grain flatbreads
  • 2 cups arugula
  • Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill and brush flatbreads with olive oil.
  2. 2. Grill yam slices for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Spread pesto on flatbreads, top with grilled yam and arugula, and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of grilled yam?

Grilled yam is rich in carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients, promoting energy, digestive health, and overall well-being.

How should I store grilled yam?

Store grilled yam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.

Can grilled yam be frozen?

Yes, grilled yam can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Is grilled yam gluten-free?

Yes, grilled yam is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten intolerance.

How do I know when yam is cooked?

Yam is cooked when it is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. It should not be mushy.

Can I eat yam skin?

Yes, yam skin is edible and contains additional nutrients, but it should be thoroughly washed before cooking.

What are some common dishes made with yam?

Common dishes include yam porridge, yam fries, and yam fufu, each showcasing the versatility of this root vegetable.

Is grilled yam suitable for diabetics?

In moderation, grilled yam can be included in a diabetic diet due to its fiber content, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.