Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

Sweet potato fritters are a delightful twist on traditional potato fritters. These golden, crispy bites combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, these fritters are sure to impress your family and guests alike. With the added crunch of turkey bacon and the freshness of green onions, you’re in for a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Wholesome: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, making these fritters a healthy choice.
• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip these up anytime.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of sweet and savory ingredients creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Kid-Friendly: These fritters are a fun way to introduce kids to new vegetables while keeping meals exciting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Cheesecloth bag or paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Makes shredding sweet potatoes quick and effortless, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Skillet: Provides an even cooking surface for frying the fritters to golden perfection.
• Spatula: Helps shape the fritters and flip them easily without breaking apart.

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Ingredients

To create these scrumptious sweet potato fritters, gather the following ingredients:

For the Fritters

• 1 large sweet potato (peeled and shredded)
• 1 large egg (whisked)
• 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (grated or shredded mozzarella cheese)
• 1/4 cup flour (can substitute for almond flour)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (or garlic powder)
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 2 tablespoons green onions (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons cooked turkey bacon (optional)
• Oil of choice (I use avocado oil)

How to Make Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and grate the sweet potatoes using your food processor for efficiency.
2. Rinse the shredded potatoes under cold water until clear to remove excess starch.
3. Squeeze out excess moisture using a cheesecloth bag or pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients Together

1. In a separate bowl, crack the egg and whisk it together with the finely chopped green onions.
2. Combine this mixture with the shredded sweet potatoes.
3. Add salt, pepper, spices, flour, and optional turkey bacon. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Fritters

1. Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Using a spoon, drop rounds of the sweet potato mixture into the skillet.
3. Press each round into a fritter shape with your spatula.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your delicious sweet potato fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce such as homemade chipotle sauce.

Enjoy these delightful bites at your next gathering!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

Sweet potato fritters are not only versatile but also a delightful addition to any meal. These fritters can be served in various ways, enhancing their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the sweet flavor of the fritters.
• Chipotle Sauce: For a spicy kick, try serving with homemade chipotle sauce for extra flavor.
• Avocado Dip: A smooth avocado dip can add a fresh twist and complements the fritters beautifully.

As a Main Dish

• With Salad: Serve the fritters on a bed of mixed greens dressed with vinaigrette for a light meal.
• Topped with Eggs: Add a poached or fried egg on top for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

In Tacos

• Sweet Potato Taco Filling: Use the fritters as a filling in soft tortillas, topped with salsa and avocado for delicious tacos.

As Appetizers

• Party Platter: Arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces for an appealing appetizer at gatherings.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

Achieving the perfect sweet potato fritters involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to make your fritters truly exceptional.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh sweet potatoes and green onions enhance flavor and texture, making your fritters tastier.
• Don’t Skip Rinsing: Rinsing shredded potatoes removes excess starch, leading to crispier fritters.
• Squeeze Out Moisture: Properly removing moisture from the shredded sweet potatoes prevents soggy fritters.
• Maintain Medium Heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures even cooking without burning the outside before the inside is done.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices like paprika or cumin to customize the flavor of your fritters.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

Pairing side dishes with sweet potato fritters can enhance your meal experience. Here’s a list of side dishes that complement these tasty bites perfectly.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light dressing adds crunch and freshness.
2. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the fritters.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out earthy flavors that pair well with sweet potatoes.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds protein and fiber while keeping it healthy.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a nice crunch alongside the soft texture of fritters.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
7. Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa made with mango or pineapple adds brightness and sweetness that complements the dish nicely.
8. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with pita chips and fresh veggies for a Mediterranean twist alongside the fritters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sweet potato fritters, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Not draining shredded potatoes: Failing to remove excess moisture from the shredded sweet potatoes can lead to soggy fritters. Always rinse and squeeze out as much water as possible.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your fritters tough. Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed to maintain a light texture.

• Cooking at too high heat: If your skillet is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. Use medium heat for even cooking.

• Skipping seasoning: Sweet potatoes need flavor! Don’t forget to add salt and spices for a tasty result.

• Neglecting the right oil: Using an oil with a low smoke point can ruin your fritters. Opt for oils like avocado or canola that can handle higher temperatures.

• Not monitoring cooking time: Cooking fritters too long can lead to dryness. Pay attention and flip them once they are golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store fritters in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

• Place cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but this may result in softer fritters.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about sweet potato fritters, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use other vegetables in sweet potato fritters?

Yes! You can experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when sweet potato fritters are done?

Look for a golden-brown color on both sides. They should be crispy on the outside and cooked through inside.

Is it possible to make sweet potato fritters without eggs?

Absolutely! You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute or try applesauce for binding.

How do I make sweet potato fritters with bacon and green onions healthier?

To make them lighter, consider using less oil during cooking or baking instead of frying. You can also substitute regular cheese with a lower-fat option.

What dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fritters?

These fritters go well with sour cream, yogurt-based dips, or even homemade chipotle sauce for added zest!

Final Thoughts

Sweet potato fritters offer a delightful twist on traditional recipes. Their versatility allows them to shine as appetizers or main dishes. Feel free to customize them by adding other vegetables or spices according to your taste!