There are some key differences when we look at sweet potatoes vs. regular potatoes. Although they are both potatoes, they are not closely related. Regular potatoes belong to the nightshade family whereas sweet potatoes belong to the morning glories. And although the sweet potato has gained a reputation for being healthier, it all mostly depends on how you prepare it. Let's take a look at the difference in nutrition, taste, and texture, and also how you can use these potato options in your next meal.
Sweet Potato vs. Regular Potato: Nutrition
Although they are very similar nutritionally, if a sweet potato has more carbohydrates and calories, how can it be the healthier option? Well, sweet potatoes are highly dense in macronutrients and vitamins. Another positive fact about sweet potatoes is that they have a higher content of beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant pigment that makes sweet potatoes their bright orange color. Studies show that people who have high levels of beta carotene have a 17 percent lower risk of dying prematurely.
Sweet Potato vs. Regular Potato: Taste
The difference between the taste of these potatoes is very obvious, one is sweet and one is not! Sweet potatoes have a sugary sweet flavor along with hints of nuttiness. Regular potatoes have a mild earthy taste. The flavor of a sweet potato is good enough that you don't necessarily need to add anything to it to eat it, whereas as with regular potatoes, most people would never choose to eat it without salt and butter.
Sweet Potato vs. Regular Potato: Texture
There is a major difference between these potatoes when it comes to texture. The sweet potato is very soft, fluffy, and moist in texture. Regular potatoes are dense, starchy, and significantly drier in texture.
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Sweet Potato vs. Regular Potato: Recipes
For some, the taste of a sweet potato is an acquired taste. But, there are great recipes you can make with both these potato options.
A Quick Comparison of Sweet Potatoes vs. Regular Potatoes
Both sweet potatoes and regular potatoes enjoy considerable popularity. Regular potatoes are cheap and widely available, while sweet potatoes are beloved for their taste and health benefits. If your kids don't like regular potatoes, they'll likely enjoy sweet potatoes due to their sweeter taste. Another major difference between sweet and regular potatoes is textural; sweet potatoes are soft and fluffy, while regular potatoes are dense and starchy. Which one do you prefer?
Sweet Potato Recipes
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Baked Sweet Potato Dessert
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- 4-serving meals starting at $3.77 per serving (up to 25% cheaper than HelloFresh).
- Incredible variety with 10+ weekly meal options, delivered directly to you.
- Easy to prepare meals ready in 30-minutes or less.
- Total Time: 55-70 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- 1/8 cup of olive oil or melted butter
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- Optional toppings:
- Chopped nuts
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate chips
- Maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry the sweet potatoes, then pierce them all over with a fork.
- Rub each sweet potato with a bit of olive oil or melted butter.
- Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare your toppings of choice.
- Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Slice each sweet potato in half lengthwise and squeeze gently to open.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the sweet potato halves.
- Add your desired toppings to each sweet potato.
- Serve the sweet potatoes hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Sweet Potato Curry
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- Autumn Kielbasa Sheet Pan Bake
- Sweet Potato Pudding
- Sweet Potato Casserole
Regular Potato Recipes
- Baked Potato
- Overstuffed Twice-Baked Potato
- Cheese & Herb Potato Fans
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes
- Mashed Potatoes
- Fondant Potatoes