Red Yams are slim, elongated potatoes. Their skin is rough and brownish, and their flesh is pale pink to dark purple.
You should look for firm yams with smooth skin and no signs of bruising or sprouting.
Scrub the yams under cool running water with a vegetable brush. You can leave the skin on for better eating or remove it with a vegetable peeler, but otherwise they are ready to roast, fry, mash or steam.
It is best to store them at room temperature in a dark place and eat them within one to two weeks.
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