How to Make Sweet Potato Fritters for Kwanzaa

Historically, food was often used as currency in many African nations. Those who farmed or raised animals were therefore able to take care of themselves and their families using their skills. Today, Kwanzaa is a celebration of that self-reliance and of the collective power of the community. As part of Kwanzaa, a huge feast is given on the last night of the celebration and sweet potato fritters are often served.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• 1/2 tsp. of salt
• Large pot
• 1/4 stick of butter
• Powdered sugar
• Large bowl
• Cookie sheet
• 1/2 cup of bread crumbs
• 1 lb of sweet potatoes
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup of all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon
• 1 tbsp. of baking powder
• 1/3 cup of sugar
• Vegetable oil

Make Sweet Potato Fritters for Kwanzaa

1. Pre-heat your oven to 375 degrees F.

2. Peel the sweet potatoes and then cut them into small cubes. Place them in a large pot, cover with water and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce the heat and cook the potatoes for about 25 to 20 minutes or until tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

4. Remove from pot and put potatoes in a large bowl along with the butter and mash the sweet potatoes. Stir in the egg, sugar, salt and cinnamon with the potatoes until well mixed.

5. Add the flour and bread crumbs and fold in to the sweet potato mixture until a sticky dough is formed. If the consistency is correct, the dough should stick to a spoon. Add a little more flour if mixture is not thick enough, and a little water if it is too thick.

6. Pour at least an inch of oil into the skillet and heat up to 350 degrees F. You can use a food thermometer to check the temperature.

7. Use two spoons and make small balls of dough and place carefully in the oil. Fry for about 1 to 2 minutes or until brown and cooked through.

8. Remove fritters from oil and place on a a cookie sheet. Place them in the pre-heated oven until you are ready to serve them. You can sprinkle them with powdered sugar just before serving, if desired, or served with maple syrup.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also make more savory fritters by taking out the sugar and cinnamon and adding in about 1/2 cup onions, chives, mint and other herbs and spices.