Yams and sweet potatoes are plump, smooth-skinned tubers of a plant in the morning glory family; they are actually not related to potatoes at all. The distinction between the two is often confusing and the names are often interchanged. The flesh of yams (sometimes called red sweet potatoes) is orange and quite sweet when cooked; sweet potatoes (sometimes called white sweet potatoes) have a lighter skin and the flesh is yellow. Store them in a cool, dark, and dry place for up to 2 weeks; do not refrigerate.

Paulette Mitchell, a culinary instructor, television personality, and the author of 10 cookbooks, is known internationally for her quick-to-prepare recipes with a gourmet flair. Her 15-Minute Gourmet cookbook series, including Chicken, Vegetarian, and Noodles, was awarded "Best Cookbook Series in the World" at the 2000 World Cookbook Fair in Périgueux, France in November, 2000. Her Complete Soy Cookbook was named "Best Health Cookbook" at the same event in 1998. To buy Paulette Mitchell's cookbooks, click here.