Picking a good sweet potato should not feel like guesswork. With a little know-how, you can walk through the produce aisle and grab the perfect one in seconds. The right choice makes a real difference, since a solid sweet potato cooks better, tastes richer, and holds its shape.
Here are five simple methods that work every time:
Choose a Medium-Sized Sweet Potato
A medium size also keeps prep simple and helps the potato cook at a steady pace.
Look closely at the skin. You want it smooth and tight, with no cuts or dents. Marks often mean stress or old age. Clean, unbroken skin protects the flesh inside and keeps the potato fresh until it is cooked.
Make Sure It Feels Firm and Heavier Than It Looks
A good sweet potato feels solid. When you pick one up, it should not bend or feel soft. A firm texture indicates that the potato is fresh and still full of moisture. If it feels squishy or hollow, it has started to break down inside.
Remember, weight also matters. A fresh sweet potato feels heavier than you expect. That extra weight comes from natural moisture. This gives you a better texture once cooked, as dry potatoes can turn stringy or crumbly and lose their flavor.
Always Look for an Even Shape
Uniform potatoes cook more predictably, since the heat spreads through them at the same rate. This helps you avoid burnt edges or hard centers.
An even shape also makes peeling and slicing easier. Odd bumps can waste time and lead to uneven cuts. When the potato sits flat on the cutting board, everything works smoothly and safely.
Avoid Sprouts, Bruises & Dark Patches
Sprouts signal age. When a sweet potato grows little roots, it has been sitting around for too long. The flesh inside begins to lose sweetness and can turn fibrous. You want a potato that still looks fresh and lively, not one that is trying to grow again.
Bruises and dark spots mean damage. These areas can taste bitter and affect the rest of the potato as it cooks. A few tiny marks are fine, but skip any with deep cuts or soft spots. Fresh sweet potatoes should look and feel clean, bright, and solid.
Store in a Cool, Dry, Airy Spot
Your work does not stop after you bring them home. Sweet potatoes stay at their best when stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. A pantry or countertop works well. Proper airflow keeps the skin dry and prevents mold.
Make sure to never put sweet potatoes in the fridge. Cold temperatures change their structure and can make them hard in the center. They may also taste off or cook unevenly. At room temperature, they hold their flavor and stay fresh for up to two weeks.