Indo-style Spiced Sweet Potato Fritters

Ingredients

In this Indo adaptation of Mbatan Batata, the traditional Cameroonian dish, we incorporate Indo spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder to add a distinct flavor profile. The fritters are also pan-fried instead of deep-fried, resulting in a lighter and healthier version. These adaptations infuse the dish with an Indo twist while still maintaining the essence of the original Cameroonian flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Mbatan batata, so you can check it out.

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and grated (500g) 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and grated (500g)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the grated sweet potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the sweet potato mixture and shape it into a small patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. 4.
   Carefully place the sweet potato patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
5. 5.
   Once cooked, remove the fritters from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Indo-style Spiced Sweet Potato Fritters hot as a snack or appetizer.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet potatoes — Make sure to grate the sweet potatoes using the large holes of a box grater to achieve the desired texture for the fritters.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sweet potato mixture.
• Serve the fritters with a side of mint chutney or yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast to the spices.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder in the recipe.
• Experiment with different spices such as garam masala or curry powder to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• To make the fritters even crispier, lightly dust them with cornstarch before frying.

Serving advice

Serve the Indo-style Spiced Sweet Potato Fritters as a snack or appetizer. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce of your choice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an added burst of freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fritters on a platter, stacking them in an appealing manner. Sprinkle some extra chili powder or paprika on top for a vibrant touch. Serve with a side of mint chutney or yogurt sauce in a small bowl for dipping.