Very often the root vegetables yam and sweet potato are used synonymously to describe two different potatoes. The sweet potato is botanically different from a yam. It has a bright orange or yellow flesh and its origin is thought to be South America (dating back to 8,000 BC) and Central America (dating back to at least 5,000 years ago), while the yam has a pale flesh and is native to Asia and Africa. 95% of the world's yam crop is harvested in West Africa. The most striking differences arise when one discovers the difference in the nutrition content between sweet potatoes and yams. Sweet potatoes have a significantly higher amount of vitamin A, and a higher content of other vitamins and minerals when compared to yams.
Directions
- Combine broth, sweet potato, russet potatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Remove bay leaf.
- Let cool a bit, then pour the mixture into a blender one cup at a time and blend until smooth.
- Return to the pot. Add buttermilk and skim milk.
- Cook on low heat to the desired temperature.
- Optional: garnish with fresh thyme.
℞ M.D. Notes
- This soup is great comfort food. It is easy on the stomach and mouth.
- Russet potato and sweet potato are a great source of fiber.
- Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, and a very good source of vitamin C. They are also a great source of beta-carotene, which possesses antioxidant properties.
- Garlic, onions and chives belong to the family of vegetables called Allium. Allium vegetables are now being studied for their anti-cancer effects. To get the most benefit from garlic, peel and chop the cloves and let stand for 10 minutes before cooking (this activates enzymes and releases the sulfur-containing compounds that have the most protective effects).
- This blended soup is a soothing choice during the days following chemotherapy. If one's mouth is sore, try sipping the soup at room temperature. If one would like to increase calories in the diet, substitute half and half or cream for the fat-free ingredients.
- If your taste buds are altered by chemotherapy or radiation, you may want to try some of the following ideas: if too sweet or too salty, add a few drops of lemon juice; if too bitter, add a bit of maple syrup; if a metallic taste persists, add a little bit of sweetness with maple syrup and a squeeze of lemon.
