khoai

Khoai is a Vietnamese word that translates to "sweet potato" in English. It refers to the starchy, sweet-tasting tuberous root of the *Ipomoea batatas* plant. Sweet potatoes are a staple food in many parts of the world, including Vietnam, where they are a common ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. They are known for their nutritional value, being a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber.

In Vietnamese cuisine, khoai can be prepared in numerous ways. It is often boiled, steamed, roasted, or fried. It can be found in soups, stews, and curries, or mashed and incorporated into desserts like sweet potato cakes or puddings. The sweet potato's natural sweetness makes it a versatile ingredient that can complement a variety of flavors. Different varieties of khoai exist, varying in size, shape, color of the skin, and flesh, and the type used can influence the final dish. Beyond its culinary uses, the sweet potato plant's leaves are also sometimes consumed as a vegetable in Vietnam.