Sweet potato tots are a delightful, healthy alternative to traditional tater tots, offering a sweet and savory twist to this beloved snack. Not only are they easy to make, but they also provide a nutritious boost of vitamins and fiber. Here’s a simple recipe to create your own sweet potato tots at home, perfect for snacks, sides, or even a fun, interactive activity with kids!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch or potato starch
- 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a savory kick)
- 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Oil spray for baking
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into small chunks or cubes. This step ensures even cooking and makes it easier to shape them into tots.
Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
There are two methods you can use:
- Boiling: Place the sweet potato chunks in a pot of boiling water and cook until they are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Baking: Alternatively, for a different flavor profile, you can bake the sweet potato chunks at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes or until they’re soft. Let them cool afterward.
Step 3: Mash and Season
Once the sweet potatoes are cool enough to handle, mash them in a large bowl. Make sure there are no large lumps. Add in the cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix well until you have a somewhat sticky dough. The cornstarch will help to bind the tots, making them crispier in the oven.
Step 4: Shape the Tots
Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into tot-like cylinders or small nuggets. If the mixture is too sticky, slightly wet your hands with water to prevent the dough from sticking. Place the shaped tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
💡 Note: If the mixture becomes too sticky or soft, you can add a bit more cornstarch to firm it up.
Step 5: Bake Until Crispy
Lightly spray the tots with oil to give them a crispy exterior. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crisping. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside yet tender inside.
To wrap up, making sweet potato tots at home not only brings a burst of flavor but also incorporates healthier ingredients into your diet. These tots can be enjoyed as a side dish with dinner, a fun snack, or even as part of a wholesome brunch spread. The combination of sweet potatoes' natural sweetness with savory seasoning makes them versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes.
Can I make these sweet potato tots in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare the tots and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. If you freeze them, they can last for up to a month. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator before baking for best results.
What are some serving suggestions for these tots?
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Sweet potato tots go well with dips like ketchup, garlic aioli, or a spicy mayo. They can also be served alongside grilled meats, as part of a breakfast dish with eggs, or simply as a healthy snack on their own.
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
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Yes, you can use regular potatoes, although the flavor profile will change. You might need to adjust the seasoning slightly due to the different taste and moisture content of regular potatoes.
