Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions are a delightful twist on traditional fritters. These tasty bites blend the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory crunch of turkey bacon, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light main course, these fritters are sure to impress. Their healthy ingredients and easy preparation make them a standout choice for families looking to enjoy nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, making these fritters a nutritious option.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these fritters quickly.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these fritters as an appetizer, snack, or side dish—they fit any meal!
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet potatoes, turkey bacon, and green onions creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to modify the recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables.

Tools and Preparation

To create perfect Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions, having the right tools is essential. Here are some helpful items to have on hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Cheesecloth or paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Speeds up the shredding process for sweet potatoes, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and easy flipping of your fritters.
• Cheesecloth or paper towels: Helps remove excess moisture from shredded sweet potatoes for crispier fritters.

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

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

Step 2: Dry the Shredded Potatoes

1. Squeeze out moisture from the rinsed sweet potato shreds using cheesecloth or pat dry with paper towels.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, crack the egg and whisk it together with finely chopped green onions.
2. Combine this mixture with the dried shredded potatoes. Add salt, pepper, spices, flour, and optional turkey bacon crumbles; mix until well combined.

Step 4: Cook the Fritters

1. Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Using a spoon, scoop portions of the sweet potato mixture into the skillet. Press them down gently into fritter shapes using a spatula.
3. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.

Step 5: Serve Your Fritters

Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on top or pair with your favorite dipping sauce like homemade chipotle sauce for an extra kick!

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

Sweet potato fritters with turkey bacon and green onions are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual meal at home, these fritters can elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking during parties.
• Pair with a tangy dipping sauce like homemade chipotle mayo for added flavor.

In a Salad

• Crumble the fritters over mixed greens for a hearty salad.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette to enhance the flavors.

With Eggs

• Serve alongside fried or poached eggs for a delicious brunch option.
• The combination of flavors makes for a satisfying start to the day.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats or roasted vegetables to round out your meal.
• These fritters complement many main courses beautifully.

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

Creating the perfect sweet potato fritters requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to achieve delightful results every time.

• Choose the right sweet potato: Use a large, firm sweet potato for optimal texture and flavor.
• Shred properly: Shredding the sweet potatoes evenly ensures consistent cooking.
• Drain excess moisture: Removing excess water helps the fritters crisp up nicely.
• Heat oil correctly: Make sure your oil is hot before adding the fritter mixture; this prevents them from soaking up too much oil.
• Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; this allows even cooking and browning.
• Let them rest: Allowing cooked fritters to sit on paper towels for a minute helps retain their crispiness.

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

When serving sweet potato fritters, side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that pair well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side dish that complements the fritters’ flavor.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch alongside the soft texture of fritters.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a healthy balance.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and crunch, making it an excellent match for the savory fritters.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and color to your plate, enhancing presentation.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob provides sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors in the fritters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your fritters turn out perfectly.

• Not draining the potatoes properly: If you skip this step, your fritters can end up soggy. Always rinse and squeeze out excess moisture from the shredded sweet potatoes before mixing.
• Overcrowding the pan: This can lead to uneven cooking. Fry in batches to give each fritter enough space for that perfect golden crust.
• Ignoring seasoning: Sweet potatoes need flavor! Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and spices. Adjust them according to your taste for the best results.
• Using too much oil: While a little oil is necessary for frying, too much can make your fritters greasy. Just a thin layer will suffice for a crispy finish.
• Cooking at too high a temperature: This can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Keep the heat at medium for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fritters in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

• Place cooled fritters in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They will maintain quality for about 2-3 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions that may help you along your cooking journey.

How do I know when my fritters are done?

The fritters should be golden brown on both sides and cooked through in the center. You can cut one open to check if it’s tender.

Can I use other types of meat instead of turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with regular bacon, ham, or even omit meat entirely for a vegetarian option.

What can I serve with sweet potato fritters?

These fritters pair well with sour cream, yogurt, or any dipping sauce of your choice like chipotle sauce or guacamole.

Can I make these sweet potato fritters ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

Final Thoughts

Sweet Potato Fritters with Turkey Bacon and Green Onions are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any meal. Enjoy them as an appetizer or main dish, and don’t hesitate to customize them based on your preferences—consider adding different herbs or spices! Try this recipe today!