Do Mexicans know the difference between a Sweet Potato and Yam As it seems impossible to get sweet potato here in Mexico?
You're right, it is indeed difficult to find true sweet potatoes in Mexico. The "sweet potatoes" commonly available are actually yams. This is because the word "camote" in Spanish refers to yams, not sweet potatoes.
So, while Mexicans might not distinguish between the two in terms of their names, they are familiar with "camote" and its taste. This means they know the difference in taste and texture between what they call "camote" (yam) and potatoes.
Here's why it's difficult to find sweet potatoes in Mexico:
* Climate: Sweet potatoes thrive in warm, humid climates. While Mexico has many such areas, the sweet potato varieties that are best adapted to these climates are not as widely cultivated there as they are in the US or other regions.
* Historical Preference: Yams have been cultivated in Mexico for centuries, so they are more ingrained in the local diet and culinary traditions.
* Supply Chain: The sweet potato market in Mexico is relatively small, and the supply chain for importing them is not as well developed as it is for other vegetables.
So, while Mexicans might not be familiar with the term "sweet potato" specifically, they are familiar with the taste and texture of the yam, which is what they commonly call "camote."
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