Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions are a delightful twist on traditional fritters. These fritters combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with savory turkey bacon and the fresh bite of green onions. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Their crispy exterior and tender inside make them a standout dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these fritters in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet potatoes with turkey bacon and green onions creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, a side for your main meal, or even as a snack throughout the day.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with vitamins from sweet potatoes and protein from turkey bacon, these fritters offer a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable Recipe: Feel free to adjust spices or add other ingredients based on your preferences!

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Tools and Preparation

To make Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Cheesecloth bag (or paper towels)

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the shredding process for sweet potatoes, making preparation easier.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking while frying the fritters.
• Cheesecloth bag: Helps remove excess moisture from shredded potatoes efficiently.

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 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 turkey bacon (chopped, 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

• Peel and grate the sweet potatoes using a food processor or grater.
• Rinse the shredded potatoes under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

• Use a cheesecloth bag to squeeze out excess water from the shredded potatoes. Alternatively, pat them dry using paper towels.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and finely chopped green onions.
• Add the shredded sweet potatoes to this mixture along with salt, pepper, spices, flour, and chopped turkey bacon. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Cook the Fritters

• Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Using a spoon, scoop rounds of the sweet potato mixture into the skillet. Press down gently with a spatula to flatten into fritter shapes.
• Cook each fritter for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce like homemade chipotle sauce for added flavor!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

Sweet potato fritters with bacon and green onions make for a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or part of a main meal, these fritters are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and tang.
• Chipotle Sauce: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, this sauce complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.
• Avocado Cream: A fresh and creamy option that enhances the flavors of the fritters.

As a Side Dish

• With Salad: Serve alongside a mixed greens salad for a refreshing contrast.
• In Tacos: Use them as filling for tacos topped with salsa and avocado.
• On a Charcuterie Board: Pair with meats, cheeses, and fruits for an impressive presentation.

For Breakfast

• With Eggs: Serve alongside scrambled or poached eggs for a hearty breakfast.
• On Toast: Place on top of toast with sliced avocado for a trendy brunch option.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

To ensure your sweet potato fritters turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance both texture and flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh sweet potatoes and green onions to maximize flavor.
• Drain Well: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated sweet potatoes. This helps achieve crispy fritters.
• Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and spices according to your taste preference. Everyone’s palate is unique!
• Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cooking in smaller batches allows for even cooking and better browning.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like cheddar or feta for varied flavors.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain their crispness.

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

Pairing side dishes with sweet potato fritters can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide great texture and flavor contrast.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious side that adds protein and complements the flavors of the fritters well.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds brightness and crunch; try a tangy dressing for extra zest.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully as a comfort food option.
6. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides freshness that balances the richness of fritters.
7. Fruit Salsa: A sweet pineapple or mango salsa brings a fruity twist that contrasts nicely with savory elements.
8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; consider topping it with lime butter for extra flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making sweet potato fritters, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overly Wet Ingredients: Too much moisture from the sweet potatoes can lead to soggy fritters. Always rinse and squeeze out excess water thoroughly before mixing.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Fritters can be bland without proper seasoning. Make sure to add salt, pepper, and spices to enhance the flavor profile.
• Not Preheating the Pan: Cooking in a cold skillet can result in uneven cooking. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the fritter mixture to get that golden-brown crust.
• Using the Wrong Flour: Not all flours work well for binding. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, consider almond flour instead of regular flour.
• Crowding the Skillet: Adding too many fritters at once can lower the oil temperature, causing them to steam instead of fry. Cook in batches for best results.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Under-cooking can leave the inside raw. Make sure each fritter is cooked for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow fritters to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

• Freeze on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake on a lined sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; this may make them softer rather than crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making sweet potato fritters, here are some common inquiries along with their answers.

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon if you prefer its flavor; just ensure it’s cooked before adding it to the fritter mixture.

How do I make Sweet Potato Fritters with Bacon and Green Onions gluten-free?

Simply swap out regular flour for almond flour or another gluten-free flour blend when preparing your fritters.

Can I add other vegetables to my fritters?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in grated zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

What dipping sauces pair well with these fritters?

These fritters are delightful with sour cream or any spicy dipping sauce like chipotle mayo or sriracha ranch.

Final Thoughts

These sweet potato fritters with bacon and green onions are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, customize ingredients based on your preferences, and enjoy their comforting taste. Try experimenting with different spices or veggies to make this dish uniquely yours!