Description
These Sweet Potato Fritters are a delicious and nutritious recipe perfect for babies, toddlers, and Baby-Led Weaning (BLW). Made with simple ingredients like shredded sweet potato, egg, and flour, these fritters are easy to prepare either by pan-frying or baking. They are soft enough for little ones while offering a crispy golden crust for added texture. This recipe offers flexibility with optional seasonings and different cooking methods, making it ideal for a healthy snack or meal addition.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium sweet potato (shredded, approximately 1 to 1¼ cups)
- 1 large egg
- 1.5 tbsp flour (all-purpose or suitable alternatives, see notes)
- Pinch of salt (omit for babies younger than 9 months)
- Pinch of onion powder (or shredded onion)
- Optional: pinch of garlic powder
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp avocado oil or ghee (or animal fat) for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: Place the shredded sweet potato in a medium bowl. Add the egg, flour, garlic powder (if using), onion powder, and salt (if using). Stir gently until everything is just combined without over-mixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Shape the Fritters: Use a spoon to divide the mixture into approximately 8 equal parts, or scoop about 1.5 tablespoons at a time. With your hands, shape each portion into small, flattened patties.
- Pan-Fry the Fritters: Heat about 1/2 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. If using a ceramic skillet, you can cook without oil, but the fritters will have a lighter color. Once the oil is hot, reduce the heat to medium, place the patties in the skillet, and fry them in batches for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Cool: Remove the cooked fritters from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel to cool slightly before serving to your baby or toddler.
- Alternatively, Bake in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425–450°F (220–230°C) with a cookie sheet inside to heat. When ready, carefully remove the hot cookie sheet, line it with parchment paper, and arrange all the shaped fritters on it. Flatten them gently with a spatula. Optionally, spray the parchment paper lightly with oil for a crisper finish. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through, using the broiler for the last 2 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
Notes
- For babies under 9 months, omit the salt to keep the recipe baby-friendly.
- Flour alternatives include rice flour, oat flour, or gluten-free flour blends, suitable for dietary restrictions.
- Using a ceramic skillet allows cooking without oil for a lighter version, but the color will be less golden.
- If baking, keep an eye on the temperature, as ovens vary; adjust as needed to prevent overbrowning.
- The fritters can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently before serving.
- For added flavor, fresh herbs like parsley or mild spices can be incorporated, ensuring they’re suitable for your child’s age.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (frying) or 20 minutes (baking)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sweet potato fritters, baby food, toddler snacks, BLW recipe, healthy snacks, kid-friendly fritters
