Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions are a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious twist on traditional fritters. These fritters are perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to fancy gatherings. Packed with flavor, they blend the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory touch of turkey bacon and the freshness of green onions. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Choice: These fritters are made with sweet potatoes, which are high in vitamins and fiber.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip these up in no time!
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet potatoes, turkey bacon, and green onions creates a delicious flavor profile.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these tasty fritters!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grater or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Cheesecloth bag (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Grater or food processor: Helps you shred sweet potatoes quickly and evenly for optimal cooking.
• Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the fritters.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping the fritters without breaking them apart.

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 crumbles (optional)
• Oil of choice. I use avocado oil.

How to Make Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

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

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

• Squeeze out water from the shredded potatoes. Use a cheesecloth bag or paper towels to help absorb moisture effectively.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

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

Step 4: Cook the Fritters

• In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of oil over medium heat.
• Using a spoon, scoop rounds of sweet potato mixture into the skillet. Press each round into a fritter shape using a spatula.

Step 5: Achieve Perfect Crispiness

• Cook each fritter over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve your delicious fritters warm with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy them fresh!

How to Serve Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

Sweet potato fritters with turkey bacon and green onions make a delightful addition to any meal. Their crispy texture and savory flavor allow for various serving options that can cater to different preferences.

As an Appetizer

• Dipping sauces: Pair your fritters with a variety of dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, or homemade chipotle sauce for added flavor.
• Garnished plates: Serve them on a bed of fresh greens or with sliced tomatoes for a colorful presentation.

As a Main Dish

• Topped with avocado: Add slices of ripe avocado on top for creaminess and extra nutrition.
• With a side salad: Complement the fritters with a light side salad for a balanced meal.

For Brunch

• Eggs on the side: Serve alongside poached or scrambled eggs for an energizing brunch option.
• Breakfast platter: Include fruit and yogurt for a well-rounded breakfast experience.

With Drinks

• Cocktails or mocktails: Pair these fritters with refreshing drinks like mimosas or iced tea for a fun gathering.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

Achieving the perfect sweet potato fritters requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh sweet potatoes and green onions. This enhances flavor and texture.
• Squeeze out moisture well: Ensure you remove excess moisture from the shredded sweet potatoes. This prevents sogginess during cooking.
• Preheat your skillet: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the fritter mixture. This ensures they achieve the desired golden-brown crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add herbs or spices that suit your taste, such as cumin or paprika, for added depth of flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with sweet potato fritters enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad made with spinach, arugula, and cherry tomatoes dressed lightly in vinaigrette.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted until caramelized make a great side.
3. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, parsley, and lemon dressing adds brightness to your plate.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and apples provides a nice contrast in texture.
5. Mashed Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on whole-grain toast topped with cherry tomatoes pairs nicely with the fritters.
6. Fruit Salsa: A zesty fruit salsa made from diced mango or pineapple adds sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the fritters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sweet potato fritters can be simple, but there are common mistakes you should avoid for the best results.

• Using wet sweet potatoes: Ensure you drain the shredded potatoes thoroughly. Excess moisture will make your fritters soggy.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mixture well. Adding salt, pepper, and spices enhances the flavor significantly.
• Overcrowding the pan: Avoid placing too many fritters in the skillet at once. This can lower the temperature of the oil and lead to uneven cooking.
• Not cooking long enough: Make sure to cook each side until golden brown. Undercooked fritters may not hold together and taste bland.
• Neglecting to preheat your oil: Always heat your oil before adding the fritter mixture. This helps achieve that crispy exterior you want.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sweet potato fritters in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

• Place fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place fritters on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds. This method may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making sweet potato fritters.

How do I prepare Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions?

To prepare these fritters, shred sweet potatoes, mix with egg, cheese, flour, seasonings, green onions, and cooked turkey bacon before frying.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute parmesan with mozzarella or any cheese of your choice to add different flavors to your fritters.

What dipping sauces go well with Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions?

These fritters pair nicely with sour cream, yogurt-based sauces, or even spicy dips like chipotle sauce for added flavor.

Are Sweet Potato Fritters healthy?

Sweet potato is packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber. When made with turkey bacon and minimal oil, they can be a healthier option compared to regular potato fritters.

Can I make these fritters vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the turkey bacon or replace it with a vegetarian alternative like tempeh or mushrooms for added texture.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer or main dish that everyone will love. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different veggies or spices based on your preferences!