Yakiimo

Yakiimo (焼き芋 or やきいも) is a Japanese grilled sweet potato or yam. Yakiimo are a popular winter snack in many areas of Japan. The most common Yakiimo are purple on the outside and yellow on the inside. The potatos are traditionally cooked over an open flame. They are often sold from a Yakiimo truck, which drives around Japanese cities playing music to get attention, like the ice cream man in America.

History

Sweet potatos originated in the Americas and the West Indies. They eventually made their way to Europe and then to Asia where China introduced them to Japan over 300 years ago.

Recipe

How to cook Japanese sweet potatos or Yakiimo.