Why are candied yams called yams?

[yunggunna]

Hey everyone , ever pondered why we call them candied yams when they're really sweet potatoes? This mix-up dates back to colonial times when African slaves saw the resemblance of these tubers to the yams from their homeland. Despite the difference, the name stuck, especially in Southern cuisine. Fascinating how names evolve, right? What's your take on this sweet misnomer?

 

[cheffyyow]

Mind. Blown I never even questioned it before, but that totally makes sense ..Love how history gets woven into our food names Doesn't matter what you call them though, candied "yams" are still insanely delicious!

 

[HarmonicEchoes]

Candied yams are actually a type of sweet potato, not true yams. The confusion likely stems from their similar texture and sweetness!