Sweet Potato Fritters (picarones)

Sweet Potato Fritters, also known as Picarones, are a popular Peruvian dessert that combines the sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crispy, fried batter. These fritters are typically served with a sweet syrup made from panela (unrefined whole cane sugar) and flavored with spices like cinnamon and cloves.

Sweet Potato Fritters (picarones)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk for vegan option)
  • 1/4 cup panela syrup (for serving)
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the mashed sweet potatoes, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and milk until well combined.
  2. Heat oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat.
  3. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the sweet potato batter and carefully drop it into the hot oil, shaping it into a round fritter. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  4. Remove the fritters from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  5. Serve the sweet potato fritters warm, drizzled with panela syrup.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
20 minutes
Total time:
40 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
180 per serving
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
3g
Protein
2g

Supplies

Large bowl Deep pan or pot Paper towels

Tools

Frying spoon Measuring cups and spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve the sweet potato fritters with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert pairing.

Tips & tricks

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the fritters to ensure they become crispy and golden brown.

Cost

$8