This colorful root vegetable comes in different shapes, sizes, colors, and is highly nutritious with a whopping 700% of the daily requirement for vitamin A. Originating in South and Central America, California farmers grows both “dry flesh” and “moist flesh” varieties, with the “moist flesh” variety often being referred to as a yam. Sweet potatoes can be found in your local farmers' markets year-round, but they reach peak season during the November and December months.

Garnet: Red/brown skin, deep orange flesh.

Jersey: Pale yellow-gold skin and pale yellow or white flesh, Jersey is the most potato-like of sweet potatoes.

Japanese: Brown skin, creamy white or yellow flesh, sweet.

Ube: Purple sweet potato from the Philippines.

Jewell: Orange-brown skin, orange flesh, very sweet.