Curious about the weight of a sweet potato? This comprehensive guide breaks down the average weight of sweet potatoes by size, from small to extra-large. Whether you’re meal prepping, following a diet, or simply curious, this information will be helpful.
Discover the average weight of sweet potatoes in grams and ounces, and learn how their weight compares to regular potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a specific size or just want to know the average, this guide has all the answers. So, dive in and satisfy your curiosity!
The Average Weight of Sweet Potatoes by Size
Accurately estimating the weight of a sweet potato can be challenging, especially when you can’t weigh it directly. Here’s a general guide to help you determine the approximate weight based on size:
- Small Sweet Potato: About the size of a child’s fist, weighing around 60g (2.1oz).
- Medium Sweet Potato: Similar in size to an average avocado, weighing approximately 130g (4.6oz).
- Large Sweet Potato: Roughly the size of a dollar bill, weighing around 180g (6.3oz).
By using these visual cues, you can make more accurate estimates when planning your meals or following recipes.
Size | Weight (g) | Diameter (inches) | Length (inches) | Similar Size To |
Small | 60 (2.1 oz) | 1.5 (3.8 cm) | 4 (10 cm) | Child’s fist |
Medium | 130 (4.6 oz) | 2 (5 cm) | 5 (12.7 cm) | Avocado |
Large | 180 (6.3 oz) | 2.5 (6.3 cm) | 6 (15.2 cm) | Dollar note |
This table provides a clear and concise overview of sweet potato sizes, weights, and visual comparisons.
The Weight of Cooked vs. Raw Sweet Potato
While the weight of a raw sweet potato can be estimated based on its size, it’s important to note that cooking significantly affects its weight.
Dry Cooking Methods: Baking, Roasting, Microwaving, Grilling cause sweet potatoes to lose moisture, resulting in a decrease in weight after cooking.
Wet Cooking Methods: Steaming, Boiling can lead to increased weight as the sweet potato absorbs water during the cooking process.
Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the cooking method when planning meals or following recipes that specify the weight of sweet potatoes.
Looking for a Paleo-friendly sweet potato recipe? Check out our delicious recipe for roasted sweet potatoes and acorn squash with an orange-chipotle twist.
How Much Does a Cup of Sweet Potato Weigh?
The weight of a cup of sweet potato can vary significantly depending on its preparation method. Here’s a breakdown:
Cooking Method | Weight Per Cup |
Mashed Sweet Potatoes (after boiling) | 240g (8.4oz) |
Roasted, Grilled, or Baked Sweet Potatoes | 100g (3.8oz) |
Raw Sweet Potatoes | 130g (4.5oz) |
It’s important to note that these are approximate measurements, and the actual weight can fluctuate based on factors like the specific variety of sweet potato and the exact cooking method.
Due to the varying density of sweet potatoes in different forms, it’s often challenging to accurately convert volumetric measurements to weight. By understanding these approximate weights, you can better plan your meals and portion sizes.
How Much Does a Bushel or Bin of Sweet Potato Weigh?Â
If you frequently purchase sweet potatoes in bulk quantities, understanding the weight of a bushel or bin can be helpful.
A bushel or bin of sweet potatoes typically weighs around 50 pounds (22.6 kg). This equates to approximately 172 individual sweet potatoes. A smaller unit, the peck, weighs between 12 and 13 pounds (5.4 to 5.8 kg) and contains roughly 43 sweet potatoes.
Additional Tips for Using Sweet Potatoes
Choose sweet potatoes that feel firm and heavy for their size. Avoid those that are soft or have blemishes. The color of the skin can vary, but a deep orange or purple hue often indicates higher levels of antioxidants.
Store sweet potatoes in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or basement. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can affect their taste and texture. Keep sweet potatoes separate from regular potatoes, as they can exchange ethylene gas, which can cause them to spoil more quickly.
Cooking Tips:
- Baking: For a classic baked sweet potato, pierce the skin with a fork and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
- Roasting: Cut sweet potatoes into cubes or wedges, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Boiling: Place whole sweet potatoes in a pot of boiling water and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until tender.
- Microwaving: Pierce the skin of a sweet potato, place it on a microwave-safe plate, and microwave on high for 5-7 minutes per potato, or until tender.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your sweet potatoes and enjoy their delicious flavor and nutritional benefits.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the weight of sweet potatoes can be a valuable tool for cooking, meal planning, and dietary tracking as a vegan. By knowing the average weight of different sizes and the impact of cooking methods on weight, you can make more informed decisions in the kitchen.
Remember, these are approximate weights, and the actual weight of a sweet potato can vary depending on factors like variety and growing conditions. However, these guidelines can provide a helpful starting point for your culinary endeavors.
FAQs
How much does an average size sweet potato weigh?
An average-sized sweet potato typically weighs between 5 to 7 ounces, or approximately 142 to 198 grams.
Is 1 sweet potato 100 grams?
No, a single sweet potato generally does not weigh 100 grams. It’s smaller, usually around 5 to 7 ounces (142-198 grams).
How many sweet potatoes make 1 kg?
The number of sweet potatoes needed to make 1 kg (2.2 pounds) depends on their size. Generally, you’d need about 4-6 medium-sized sweet potatoes to reach 1 kg.
What is the size of a sweet potato?
Sweet potatoes come in various sizes, from small to extra-large. A medium-sized sweet potato, which is the most common size, typically weighs between 5 to 7 ounces (142-198 grams).
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