How to Prepare Delicious Nigerian Boiled Yam: A Step-by-Step Cooking Guide for Beginners

9jakitchenblog
August 20, 2025

Introducing Nigerian Boiled Yam (African White Yam)

Nigerian boiled yam is a staple dish in Nigerian cuisine, celebrated for its simplicity and versatility. Made from tubers of yam that are peeled, sliced, and boiled until tender, this dish is enjoyed across the country as a common breakfast, lunch, or dinner option.

Boiled yam can be served on its own, paired with a variety of savoury sauces such as egg sauce, tomato stew, or palm oil, and is often accompanied by vegetables or protein-rich sides. Its mild flavour and soft texture make it a comforting meal that highlights the rich agricultural heritage of Nigeria. Whether served in family homes, local restaurants, or festive gatherings, boiled yam remains a beloved part of Nigerian food culture.

Equipment Needed

Cooking pot
Knife
Bowl for washing
Colander
Fork

Ingredients

To boil African white yam, follow these steps:

1 Tuber of African white yam (serving 5 persons)
Sal to taste
Water

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Peel the yam and cut it into pieces

Use a knife to remove the thick brown skin. Be careful, as yams can be slippery.
Slice the yam into rounds or large chunks, about 1–2 inches thick.

Step 2: Rinse

Wash the yam pieces thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or starch.

Step 3: Place the peeled yam in a Pot

Put the yam pieces into a large pot.
Pour enough water into the pot to cover the yam completely.
Add a pinch of salt for flavour. (Optional)

Peeled yam in a pot

Step 3: Boil

Place the pot on medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil.
Cook until tender.
Let the yam cook for 20–30 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the pieces. (Cooking time may vary depending on the size and variety.)

Yam boiling in a pot

Step 4: Drain

Once soft, drain the water using a colander.

Drained Boiled Yam

Step 5: Serve

Enjoy your boiled yam with sauce, egg, palm oil (red oil), stew, or eat as is.

Nigerian boiled yam served with fish peppered sauce

Tips to Prepare Nigerian Boiled Yam

Here are some tips to prepare Nigerian boiled yam:

Choose the Right Yam: Use fresh, firm tubers of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata), as these are most common in Nigerian cuisine.
Peel Carefully: Use a sharp knife to peel off the thick brown skin. Be cautious, as yam can be slippery.
Cut Evenly: Slice the yam into thick rounds or half-moons, about 1–2 inches thick. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking.
Rinse Well: Rinse the yam pieces in cold water to remove excess starch and any dirt.
Use Enough Water: Place yam slices in a pot and add enough water to cover them completely.
Add Salt (Optional): Add a little salt to taste. Some prefer boiling without salt and adding it later.
Boil Until Tender: Cook on medium heat for 15–25 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the yam. Don’t overcook, or it may become mushy.
Drain and Serve: Once cooked, drain the water. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions: Boiled yam is delicious with red palm oil sauce, vegetable sauce, egg sauce, tomato stew, or just butter.
Extra Tip: For a softer texture, add a little oil to the water while boiling.