Antiguan Sweet Potato Fritters
These delightful fritters are a popular sweet treat in Antigua, made from grated sweet potato, coconut, and spices, then fried to a golden crisp. They offer a unique blend of sweetness and texture, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Sweet potatoes(peeled and finely grated (about 2 medium))
- 1 cup Fresh coconut(finely grated (or unsweetened shredded coconut))
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Brown sugar(adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- for frying Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine the grated sweet potato, grated coconut, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed and form a thick batter.
💡 Tip: Ensure the sweet potato is finely grated for a smoother texture. If the mixture seems too wet, add a tablespoon more flour at a time. - 2
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350-360°F (175-180°C).
- 3
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the sweet potato mixture into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot; fry in batches.
💡 Tip: Use a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop to drop the batter. - 4
Fry the fritters for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. They should float to the surface when ready to be flipped.
- 5
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
💡 Tip: Allowing them to drain on a wire rack helps keep them crispy. - 6
Serve the Antiguan Sweet Potato Fritters warm. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
💡 Tip: These are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of melted butter or coconut oil to the batter.
- ✓If using unsweetened shredded coconut, ensure it's finely shredded to integrate well into the batter.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some variations include chopped raisins or a pinch of ground ginger for added flavor.
- For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of brown sugar.