Sweet Potato Tots
Sweet Potato Tots carry a delightful crunch that gives way to a perfectly tender interior, all thanks to the vibrant sweet potatoes. These little golden nuggets are not only a feast for the eyes but are also packed with flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Unlike the typical store-bought varieties that can feel greasy and lacking in character, homemade Sweet Potato Tots offer a wholesome twist. They’re easy to whip up and can easily be enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or even a fun appetizer.
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I remember the first time I made Sweet Potato Tots for a game night with friends. The aroma filled the kitchen, and my friends couldn’t resist sampling them right out of the oven. Watching them enjoy those crispy bites was pure joy. If you’re looking for something healthier yet equally satisfying, I invite you to join me in the kitchen to create these delectable bites. Whip them up for your next gathering or late-night snack—you won’t regret it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes in the oven, you can have these tasty bites ready in no time.
- Irresistible Flavor: The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes combined with spices and a crunchy texture makes for an addictive snack.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Their golden color and bite-sized shape make these Sweet Potato Tots a hit at parties.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for serving as a snack, side dish, or even a fun breakfast option.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to be gluten-free or vegan—simply swap in your favorite flour or binding agents!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lb peeled sweet potatoes: Choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes for the best flavor and texture. They create the base of our tasty tots.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour: This helps bind the mixture, giving it shape. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can substitute with almond or coconut flour.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and depth of flavor. Feel free to experiment with smoked paprika for a richer taste!
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Provides a savory note that complements the sweetness of the potatoes beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings a touch of earthiness, perfect for balancing the sweet potatoes.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Moistens the mixture and helps promote that lovely golden brown color. You can use avocado oil as an alternative.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors—never underestimate a sprinkle of salt!
- Flaky sea salt for garnish: A finishing touch that adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor.
How to Make Sweet Potato Tots
Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that your Sweet Potato Tots won’t stick and will bake evenly.
Boil the sweet potatoes: Fill a large pot with approximately 4 cups of water and add a pinch of salt. Once it’s boiling, carefully add your peeled sweet potatoes. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes until they’re tender but still firm—around two-thirds cooked is ideal.
Grate the sweet potatoes: Once cooked, remove the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, grate them into a large bowl. Grating helps to achieve that perfect texture, making it easier to form the tots.
Combine ingredients: In the bowl with the grated sweet potatoes, add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, a sprinkle of salt, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix everything together until well combined.
Shape the tots: Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop the mixture and shape it into small tater tot forms. Place them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet—make sure they aren’t touching to allow for even baking!
Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush the tops of your shaped Sweet Potato Tots with the remaining olive oil. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior as they bake.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, flip each tot using a spatula and bake for an additional 15 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp.
Cool and serve: Once done, let the Sweet Potato Tots cool slightly before enjoying. They’ll be hot and delicious—perfect for dipping or snacking!
Storing & Reheating
To store your Sweet Potato Tots, allow them to cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about a day or can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer at 425°F (218°C) for about 20 minutes, bringing back their crispiness!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the sweet potatoes during boiling to maintain a good texture for your tots.
- If the mixture feels too wet for shaping, add an extra tablespoon of flour to help it bind better.
- Consider adding finely chopped herbs or cheese for a flavor twist if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Keep an eye on the tots as they bake—the exact time can vary depending on your oven and how small you’ve shaped them.
- Make a double batch and freeze some for a quick snack on busy days—they’re super easy to reheat!
Sweet Potato Tots offer a delightful balance of flavor and texture while being incredibly simple to make. They’re a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy snack or side dish without sacrificing flavor. Experiment with different spices or dips to make them your own!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these Sweet Potato Tots in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just shape and follow the baking instructions. This makes for a quick and stress-free snack, especially for gatherings.
What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or coconut flour works well as a substitute. Just remember that different flours may vary in absorbency, so you might need to adjust the amount you use.
Can I bake these Sweet Potato Tots in an air fryer?
Yes, they can be air-fried! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and arrange the tots in a single layer, cooking for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, flip them for even crispiness.
What dips pair well with Sweet Potato Tots?
These tasty little bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips. Consider offering a spicy mayo, tangy ranch dressing, or even a zesty guacamole. Their sweetness complements many flavors beautifully, so get creative!
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📖 Recipe Card
Sweet Potato Tots
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Sweet Potato Tots are a delicious and healthy snack made with fresh sweet potatoes and flavorful spices. Perfect for quick meals or gatherings, they are baked for a crunchy exterior and a soft, savory interior. Enjoy a delightful twist on your traditional tots!
Ingredients
- 2 lb peeled sweet potatoes
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt to taste
- flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Fill a large pot with about 4 cups of water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, carefully add the peeled sweet potatoes and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until they are about two-thirds cooked.
- Remove the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly, then grate them into a large bowl.
Notes
For a crispier texture, ensure the sweet potatoes are well-drained before grating.
Feel free to experiment with additional spices for different flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
