Sweet potatoes usually need about 10–20 minutes when cubed and 30–45 minutes when boiled whole, depending on their size. They are done when a fork or knife slides in easily but the potato is not falling apart.

Cubed sweet potatoes

• For 3/4–1 inch cubes, boil in gently bubbling water for about 10–15 minutes.

• For larger 1–2 inch chunks, expect closer to 15–25 minutes.

Whole sweet potatoes

• Small to medium whole sweet potatoes usually take about 30–40 minutes to become fork-tender.

• Large whole sweet potatoes can take around 40–50 minutes or a bit more.

Simple method

• Put sweet potatoes (whole or cubed) in a pot, cover with water by about 1 inch, add a little salt, and bring to a boil.

• Reduce to a steady boil/simmer and cook until a fork goes in easily, then drain and use as desired.