What is a "sweet potato"?

The sweet potato is a root vegetable known for its sweet flavor and vibrant orange flesh, although it can also come in other colors like white, yellow, or purple. It has a smooth skin and a dense, starchy texture when cooked. Sweet potatoes are commonly used in cooking and can be baked, boiled, roasted, mashed, or fried. They are versatile and can be incorporated into both sweet and savory dishes, such as pies, casseroles, soups, fries, and salads. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin A, as well as fiber, antioxidants, and minerals like potassium and manganese.