Hey there, food lovers! Today, I am thrilled to share a delightful recipe that’s become a favorite in my household – Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions. This dish brings back memories of a family trip we took to a charming bed-and-breakfast in the countryside. The host served us these crispy, golden fritters for breakfast, and they were such a hit that I knew I had to recreate them at home.
Sweet potato fritters are incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a savory snack, a side dish, or even a breakfast treat, these fritters fit the bill perfectly. The sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness, while the bacon adds a savory crunch that complements the overall flavor. The green onions lend a subtle sharpness, balancing out the dish beautifully.
One of the great things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour works just as well as regular flour. You can also switch up the cheese – Parmesan gives a nice tang, but shredded mozzarella makes the fritters extra melty and delicious. For those who prefer a bit of a kick, adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the mix can spice things up nicely.
I love serving these fritters with a dollop of sour cream or a homemade chipotle dipping sauce, which adds a smoky depth of flavor. They’re perfect for any meal or occasion, from a casual family brunch to an appetizer at your next dinner party. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation just like they have in mine!
Making Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (or shredded mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour)
- 2 tablespoons cooked bacon pieces (optional)
- 1 large peeled sweet potato, shredded
- 1 large beaten egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon optional brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or onion powder)
- Oil of your choice (e.g., avocado oil)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
- Shred the sweet potato using a mini food processor or a grater.
- Rinse the shredded potato under cold water until it runs clear to eliminate the starch.
- Remove excess water from the potatoes by squeezing them with a cheesecloth or patting dry with paper towels.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix it with the chopped green onions.
- Combine the egg and onion mixture with the shredded sweet potatoes. Add salt, pepper, spices, flour, and bacon, and mix well.
- Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Spoon the sweet potato mixture into the skillet, forming rounds, and press them into fritters with a spatula.
- Cook each fritter for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve the fritters with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce, like homemade chipotle sauce.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese in the sweet potato fritters?
Yes, you can substitute the parmesan cheese with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or any other cheese that melts well. This will slightly alter the flavor but should work perfectly.
How do I ensure the fritters stay together while cooking?
To ensure the fritters stay together, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the shredded sweet potatoes. Additionally, mixing the ingredients thoroughly and pressing the fritters firmly into shape will help them hold together.
What can I use instead of flour for a gluten-free option?
Almond flour is a great substitute for regular flour if you want to make the fritters gluten-free. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and works well in binding the ingredients together.
Can these fritters be made ahead of time and reheated?
Yes, you can make the fritters ahead of time and reheat them. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.
What dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fritters?
Sweet potato fritters pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Some popular options include sour cream, chipotle dipping sauce, garlic aioli, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip.
Can I bake the fritters instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the fritters for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions
Ingredients
- 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 sub 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 bacon crumbles optional
- Oil of choice I use avocado oil
Instructions
- Peel and grate the sweet potato. I use a mini food processor to shred the potato.
- Rinse the shredded potato under cold water until the water runs clear to remove the starch.
- Squeeze out the water and moisture using a cheesecloth bag or by patting dry with paper towels.
- In a separate bowl, crack the egg and whisk it with the green onions.
- Mix the egg mixture with the shredded potatoes. Add salt, pepper, spices, flour, and bacon, then mix until well combined.
- In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium heat.
- Using a spoon, add rounds of the sweet potato mixture to the skillet and press into a fritter shape with a spatula.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. I love mine with homemade chipotle dipping sauce.
