Croquetas de Batata (Cuba)

World-Bites (26) / Croquetas de Batata

On the Spanish speaking islands appetizers are called aperitivos and snacks are called bocados. In the Caribbean they have their own sweet potato called a batata or boniato1. This sweet potato fritter (croquetas de batata )is an easy recipe for beginners and a hit with anyone who likes sweet potatoes. Make these small fried sweet potato rolls for an appetizer, party snack, or side dish.

Ingredients:

* 3 cups sweet potatoes (cooked and mashed)
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 3 eggs (beaten for egg wash)
* 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs
* oil for frying

Preparation:

1. Heat oil on a deep frying pan or deep fryer to about 360 ferenheit.
2. In a large bowl thoroughly mix together the sweet potatoes, butter, salt, 2 eggs, cinnamon and sugar.
3. Shape the mixture into croquettes (small rolls).
4. Roll the croquettes in the bread crumbs, then the egg wash, and then in bread crumbs again.
5. Fry the croquettes in oil until golden (a couple minutes per side). Be careful not to burn.
6. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
7.Serve warm.