[Gembili (Javanese), Tugi (Tagalog); Nana kizhangu, Nheruvalli kizhangu,
Cheru kizhangu" (Mayalam); Kaate kanaga (Goa); Thành Phần,
Củ Tu (Viet): Dioscorea esculenta]
This True Yam originated in Indonesia, but was carried by Austronesian people to the western Pacific Islands, but not as far as Hawaii or New Zealand. They were also taken to Madagascar and then East Africa. This yam is also a significant crop on the tropical West Coast of India, from Karala in the south to southern Maharashtra.
The photo specimens have been steamed and frozen for export to North America. A 16 ounce package cost 2025 US $2.69 from a large Asian market in Los Angeles (San Gabriel). Dug from the ground they would have tight skins and a thread-like roots where the spots are.
Taste cooked is soft, neutrally starchy, and just a little sweet.
More on Yams.