Detailed Recipe for Chinese Strawberry Mashed Yam

 Detailed Recipe for Chinese Strawberry Mashed Yam (Cao Mei Shan Yao Ni - )

Strawberry Mashed Yam is a modern, healthy Chinese dessert that combines the creamy, slightly slimy texture of steamed Chinese yam (shan yao or huai shan) with the bright, tangy sweetness of fresh strawberries.
This light, naturally sweet treat is popular for its nutritional benefits—Chinese yam is valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine for nourishing the spleen, lungs, and kidneys, while strawberries add vitamin C and antioxidants.
The result is a smooth, pudding-like mash that's refreshing, low in added sugar, and visually appealing with pink-red swirls.
It's often served chilled as a dessert or snack, especially in spring when strawberries are in season. This recipe serves 4 and is simple, requiring no cooking beyond steaming.IngredientsMain Ingredients:

• 400-500g fresh Chinese yam (shan yao; look for firm, hairy roots)
• 200-300g fresh ripe strawberries (about 15-20 medium ones）

For Sweetening and Flavor:

• 2-4 tbsp honey, sugar, or rock sugar (adjust to taste; strawberries provide natural sweetness)
• Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice for brighter flavor
• Optional garnishes: Whole strawberries, goji berries, or osmanthus syrup (gui hua jiang) for traditional touch

Step-by-Step InstructionsStep 1: Prepare the Chinese Yam

1. Wear gloves if possible—fresh yam can cause itchy skin when raw due to oxalates.
2. Peel the yam carefully with a peeler or knife, removing the hairy outer skin.
3. Rinse under water to remove any sticky sap.
4. Cut into even chunks or rounds (about 2-3 inches) for uniform steaming.

Step 2: Steam the Yam

1. Place the yam pieces in a heatproof dish or steamer basket.
2. Steam over high heat for 20-30 minutes until very soft (a chopstick should pierce easily). Do not boil, as steaming preserves the creamy texture and nutrients.
3. Let cool slightly for safe handling.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the green tops.
2. Set aside a few whole ones for garnish.
3. Puree half the strawberries in a blender or mash with a fork for a chunkier texture.
4. Slice or halve the remaining for mixing or topping.

Step 4: Mash and Combine

1. Mash the steamed yam while warm—use a potato masher, fork, or food processor for a smooth, sticky puree (it will be naturally glutinous and creamy).
2. Mix in the strawberry puree and any sliced pieces. Stir gently to create swirls—do not overmix if you want marbling.
3. Sweeten with honey or sugar to taste. Add lemon juice if desired for tang.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Transfer to serving bowls or a large dish.
2. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to chill and set slightly.
3. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices, goji berries, or a drizzle of osmanthus syrup.

Serve cold as a refreshing dessert.Tips and Variations

• Texture Tip: Steaming is key for the signature sticky-slimy mouthfeel; over-mashing can make it too gummy.
• Sweetness: Rely on ripe strawberries—taste before adding sugar.
• Variations: Add condensed milk for richness, or blend with yogurt for a smoothie version. Some include nuts or dried fruits.
• Safety Note: If yam causes itching, soak peeled pieces in vinegar water for 10 minutes.
• Health Benefits: Low-calorie, high-fiber; aids digestion and boosts immunity.
• Storage: Best fresh, but keeps in fridge for 1-2 days (stir before serving).