Crispy Sweet Potato Bites

Ingredients

In this Botswana-inspired version, the traditional Japanese Daigaku imo is adapted to incorporate local flavors and spices. The original dish typically uses soy sauce and mirin in the caramel sauce, but in this adaptation, we infuse the sauce with Botswana spices to add a unique twist. Additionally, the cooking technique remains the same, with the sweet potatoes being deep-fried to achieve a crispy texture. We alse have the original recipe for Daigaku imo, so you can check it out.

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1/2 cup (120ml) honey 1/2 cup (120ml) honey
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Sesame seeds, for garnish Sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 65g, 40g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   Fry the sweet potato slices in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. 3.
   In a separate saucepan, combine honey, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and forms a caramel-like consistency.
4. 4.
   Add the fried sweet potato slices to the caramel sauce and toss gently to coat.
5. 5.
   Transfer the coated sweet potato bites to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish.
6. 6.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, sweet, and savory flavors of this Botswana-inspired dish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet potatoes — Make sure to slice the sweet potatoes thinly and evenly to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
• Honey — If you prefer a vegan version, you can substitute honey with maple syrup for a similar sweet flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crunch, you can sprinkle some crushed peanuts or pecans on top of the sweet potato bites before serving.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for a milder or spicier flavor.
• Serve the crispy sweet potato bites as a snack, appetizer, or even as a side dish to complement your main course.

Serving advice

Serve the crispy sweet potato bites warm as a delicious appetizer or snack. They can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Presentation advice

Arrange the crispy sweet potato bites on a platter, drizzle any remaining caramel sauce over them, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an attractive presentation. Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.