In today’s post, we’re using leftover sweet potatoes to make a delightful Sweet Potato Fritters Recipe!
Sweet potatoes are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in various ways.
If you’re looking for a creative and delicious way to prepare sweet potatoes, this sweet potato mandazi (or dumplings) recipe is perfect.
These deep-fried treats are soft, slightly sweet, and a great alternative to traditional mandazi.
This Sweet Potato Fritters Recipe is also an excellent way to get kids to enjoy sweet potatoes in a fun and tasty way.
Mandazi, a popular East African snack, is commonly enjoyed with tea or as a quick bite during the day.
Traditionally made with wheat flour, sugar, and yeast, this version incorporates sweet potatoes, giving them a unique flavor and a boost in nutrition.
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this an excellent recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier twist on a classic treat.
One of the best things about this mandazi recipe, also called Sweet Potato Fritters recipe, is that it requires simple, everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delightful results every time.
The soft texture and natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes make these fritters incredibly delicious and satisfying.
This recipe is also perfect for families. If you have children who aren’t particularly fond of eating sweet potatoes in their natural form, incorporating them into mandazi is a great way to encourage them to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.
The slightly crispy exterior and fluffy interior make these treats irresistible, even for picky eaters.
Additionally, making this Sweet Potato Fritters Recipe at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your preference.
You can adjust the sugar level, experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even add a touch of vanilla essence for extra depth of flavor.
In this guide, we’ll take you through a step-by-step process to ensure your sweet potato fritters or mandazi turn out perfect every time.
Let’s get started!

Easy Sweet Potato Fritters Recipe | How to Use Leftover Sweet Potatoes
Equipment
- 2 mixing bowls
- 1 Masher (You can also use a fork)
- 1 Wooden Spoon
- 1 Deep frying pan
- 1 Slotted Spoon
- 1 Clean Kitchen Towel
- Measuring cups and spoons as needed
Ingredients
- 1 1 large boiled sweet potato (makes about 2 cups when mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tbsps. sugar (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp. salt
- 1 & ¼ tsps. instant yeast
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsps. vegetable oil
- 6 tbsps. milk or water (adjust as needed)
- Additional vegetable oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Leftover Sweet PotatoAdd the sweet potato to a large mixing bowl and cut it up into chunks then mash it using a masher or fork. You should have about 2 cups of mashed sweet potato. Set it aside.
- Prepare the Dry IngredientsIn a suitable mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, (you can adjust the quantity based on your preference) and salt.Mix these ingredients well. Next, add the yeast, ensuring it does not come into direct contact with the salt to avoid deactivating it. Stir to combine and set aside.
- Prepare the Wet IngredientsAdd 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and the egg to the mashed sweet potato.Mix with a wooden spoon until well combined.
- Combine the Mixtures and Knead the DoughGradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients while kneading with your hands.The dough will begin to form but may be slightly dry. To achieve a soft and slightly sticky dough, gradually add in milk or water, one tablespoon at a time. Typically, about six tablespoons should be enough, but this may vary based on the moisture content of your sweet potato.Once the dough is soft and pliable, cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 30-40 minutes. If the weather is cold, create a warm environment by placing the dough bowl over a smaller pan filled with hot water. Cover the pan with a thick kitchen towel that you’ve folded double to help reduce the heat but create a warm environment for the dough to proof.Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel to maintain warmth and encourage proofing.It's a heavy dough so it may not expand significantly but you can tell it has proofed because it will feel airy as you beat it down after the proofing time.
- Shape the Mandazi/ FrittersAfter the dough has rested, it’s time to shape the mandazi:Briefly knead the dough in the bowl.Pinch off small portions of dough and roll them into balls about an inch to an inch and a half in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly with your hands, or, Use a fork to gently press down on each piece, creating decorative ridges. To prevent the dough from sticking to the fork, lightly dip the fork in flour before pressing.
- Fry the MandaziHeat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium to high heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface without burning too quickly, the oil is at the right temperature.Carefully slide the prepared mandazi into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on one side. Flip and allow the other side to cook to a similar golden color. Once fully cooked, remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Enjoy Your Sweet Potato Mandazi/ FrittersThese sweet potato mandazi are best enjoyed warm, with a cup of tea or coffee. They have a soft, fluffy texture and a deliciously mild sweetness, making them perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Video
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Great for kids – A fun and delicious way to get children to eat sweet potatoes.
- Simple ingredients – Uses everyday ingredients that you likely already have at home.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a snack, breakfast, or side dish.
- Easy to make – No complicated techniques required.
More Sweet Potato Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out this other delightful Sweet Potato Fritters recipe, another simple and tasty way to enjoy sweet potatoes. It’s on video. The blog is coming soon! Thank you for joining us for this delightful recipe. If you love easy and delicious recipes, consider subscribing to our blog for more amazing content. Happy cooking! Enhance your hospitality for the glory of God.Recommended:
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