Yam vs. Cassava: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 29, 2023
Yam is a tuber from the Dioscoreaceae family, typically with a rough skin and starchy flesh, whereas cassava, also a tuber, from the Euphorbiaceae family, is rich in carbohydrates and a staple in tropical diets.
Key Differences
Yam, a tuber from the Dioscoreaceae family, is known for its rough skin and starchy interior. Cassava, on the other hand, comes from the Euphorbiaceae family and is recognized for its high carbohydrate content and significance in tropical diets.
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Dec 29, 2023
Cultivation of yams is widespread in Africa, Asia, and Oceania, reflecting its historical and cultural importance. In contrast, cassava, originating from South America, is now a staple in many tropical countries due to its resilience in various climates.
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Dec 29, 2023
Yams are diverse in species, with over 600 varieties, each with unique tastes and textures. Cassava has two main types: sweet and bitter, the latter requiring careful processing to remove toxins.
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Dec 29, 2023
In culinary uses, yams are often boiled, roasted, or fried, featuring in traditional dishes across different cultures. Cassava is versatile too, used to make tapioca, flour, and as a potato substitute in various recipes.
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Dec 29, 2023
Nutritionally, yams provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthful choice. Cassava, while energy-rich, contains less protein and nutrient diversity, requiring supplementation from other food sources.
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Dec 29, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Etymology
Derived from African terms, e.g., “nyami.”
From Taino, a Native American language, “kasabi.”
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Usage in Literature
Often symbolizes fertility and abundance.
Frequently represents sustenance and survival.
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Cultural References
Integral to folklore and rituals in Africa and Asia.
Central to South American and Caribbean cultural narratives.
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Yam and Cassava Definitions
Yam
Used metaphorically to denote prosperity and abundance.
In literature, a bountiful yam harvest often symbolizes wealth.
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Cassava
Known for its high carbohydrate content and low protein.
Cassava is an essential energy source in many developing countries.
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Dec 29, 2023
Yam
A food staple in many tropical and subtropical regions.
For many cultures, yam is more than just food; it's part of their heritage.
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Dec 29, 2023
Cassava
Often used to make tapioca, a gluten-free starch product.
Tapioca pearls in bubble tea are made from cassava.
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Yam
A term used to refer to various species in the genus Dioscorea.
Yams vary greatly in size and color, depending on the species.
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Cassava
A plant from the Euphorbiaceae family, used as a food staple in many countries.
Cassava is a versatile ingredient in many tropical cuisines.
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Yam
A symbol of cultural significance in various African and Asian societies.
The yam festival is a major event in some African communities.
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Dec 29, 2023
Cassava
Contains two types, sweet and bitter, both requiring cooking.
Bitter cassava must be processed to remove toxins before eating.
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Dec 29, 2023
Yam
Any of numerous chiefly tropical vines of the genus Dioscorea, many of which have edible tuberous roots.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cassava
A tropical root vegetable, known for its starchy tuber.
Cassava can be made into flour for baking.
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Dec 29, 2023
Cassava
A shrubby tropical American plant (Manihot esculenta) widely grown for its large, tuberous, starchy roots.
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Cassava
The root of this plant, eaten as a staple food in the tropics only after leaching and drying to remove cyanide. Cassava starch is also the source of tapioca. In both senses also called manioc, yuca.
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Oct 19, 2023
Yam
Any climbing vine of the genus Dioscorea in the Eastern and Western hemispheres, usually cultivated.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cassava
Manioc (Manihot esculenta), a tropical plant which is the source of tapioca.
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Oct 19, 2023
Yam
The edible, starchy, tuberous root of that plant, a tropical staple food.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cassava
A shrubby euphorbiaceous plant of the genus Manihot, with fleshy rootstocks yielding an edible starch; - called also manioc.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cassava
A nutritious starch obtained from the rootstocks of the cassava plant, used as food and in making tapioca.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cassava
A starch made by leaching and drying the root of the cassava plant; the source of tapioca; a staple food in the tropics
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Oct 19, 2023
Cassava
Cassava root eaten as a staple food after drying and leaching; source of tapioca
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Oct 19, 2023
Cassava
Any of several plants of the genus Manihot having fleshy roots yielding a nutritious starch
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Oct 19, 2023
Yam
A large, esculent, farinaceous tuber of various climbing plants of the genus Dioscorea; also, the plants themselves. Mostly natives of warm climates. The plants have netted-veined, petioled leaves, and pods with three broad wings. The commonest species is Dioscorea sativa, but several others are cultivated.
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Oct 19, 2023
Yam
Any of a number of tropical vines of the genus Dioscorea many having edible tuberous roots
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Oct 19, 2023
Yam
Edible tuberous root of various yam plants of the genus Dioscorea grown in the tropics world-wide for food
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Oct 19, 2023
Yam
A starchy tuberous root, primarily consumed in Africa and Asia.
We had boiled yam for dinner last night.
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Dec 29, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What's the nutritional value of yams?
They are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
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Dec 29, 2023
Are yams high in calories?
They are moderately high in calories, mostly from carbohydrates.
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Is cassava root toxic?
Bitter cassava contains cyanide and must be processed before eating.
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What's the shelf life of cassava?
Fresh cassava can last a few days to weeks if stored properly.
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Is yam good for weight loss?
Its high fiber content can aid in weight management.
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What's the difference between African and Asian yams?
They differ in size, taste, and texture.
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How is cassava used in cooking?
It's boiled, fried, or turned into flour or tapioca.
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Dec 29, 2023
Can cassava cause allergies?
It's rare but possible, especially for those with latex allergies.
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How is cassava harvested?
It's harvested by digging out the tuberous roots.
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What dishes are made from yams?
Yam porridge, fufu, and pounded yam are popular dishes.
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What's the environmental impact of growing cassava?
It's relatively low-impact, suitable for marginal soils.
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What are the health benefits of cassava?
It provides energy and essential nutrients.
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Dec 29, 2023
Is yam suitable for diabetics?
It should be consumed in moderation due to its carbohydrate content.
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Dec 29, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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