Yakiimo literally means “roasted potato,” and it refers specifically to Japanese sweet potatoes (“satsumaimo” in Japanese) that are slowly roasted until the inside becomes soft, creamy, and naturally sweet. The skin gets slightly crisp and caramelized, while the flesh turns golden, fluffy, and sometimes sticky with natural sugars.
Traditional yakiimo is roasted over hot stones (ishiyakiimo, 石焼き芋) in a truck or vendor stand. The low-and-slow roasting technique allows the starches in the sweet potato to convert into sugars, creating a rich, honey-like sweetness.
These trucks roam neighborhoods selling hot sweet potatoes, just like ice cream trucks, but in the winter. Obviously roasting over hot stones is not accessible to most people, so you can make yakiimo at home using ovens, air fryers, or even toaster ovens—slow-roasting for 60 – 90 minutes.
Other Ways to Use Yakiimo
Beyond their culinary appeal, Japanese sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients. They are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. Their low glycemic index makes them a good option for maintaining steady blood sugar levels. Pictured are a couple of my favorite desserts that incorporate Yakiimo.
First is my Yakiimo crème brûlée. It’s a cozy, Japanese-inspired twist on the classic French dessert, blending the caramelized sugar top of crème brûlée with the naturally sweet, creamy texture of roasted Japanese sweet potato (yakiimo).
And second are my Cinnamon-Sugar Yakiimo Mochi Balls. These little mochi balls are soft and chewy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and generously coated in cinnamon sugar while still warm.
I combine sweet rice flour with yakiimo for a chewy sweet treat. Several people have told me they reminded them of Taco Bell’s Cinnabon Delights!
Yakiimo – 焼き芋 (Roasted Japanese Sweet Potatoes)
- Total Time: 90 minutes
Description
Yakiimo is a traditional Japanese snack consisting of Japanese sweet potatoes roasted to perfection over hot stones, offering a naturally sweet and comforting treat.
Ingredients
- 1 Japanese sweet potato
- Optional toppings: honey, cinnamon, flakey sea salt, brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Place your Japanese sweet potato directly onto the rack in your oven. Bake for 90 minutes.
- When done baking, slice open (either long-ways or short-ways). The peel should come right off.
- Feel free to top with any of the optional toppings: honey, cinnamon, flakey sea salt, or brown sugar, and enjoy!
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
Love sweet potato? How is Japanese sweet potato different?
It’s so good! It’s sweeter and has a more nutty taste when roasted!
I liked the tip about letting them cool slightly before eating. It made the texture even creamier.
Yum! So good 🙂 thanks, Graham!