焼き芋 （やきいも / Yakiimo）
Roasted sweet potato
- Category
- Sweets / Dessert
- Main Ingredient
- Vegetables
Yakiimo is a roasted sweet potato with a rich natural sweetness. The “ishiyaki” version uses heated stones to evenly roast it, creating a fluffy and caramelized texture.
When / How to Eat
Commonly sold from street vendors in autumn and winter. Enjoyed plain, or with butter or ice cream for added richness.
Cultural Background
Yakiimo has been a popular winter treat since the Edo period. The call of street vendors selling hot stone-roasted potatoes remains a nostalgic sound in Japan.
Cautions
Be careful when peeling freshly roasted yakiimo—it can be very hot.