Sweet Potato Sliders

Cooking Sweet Potatoes Perfectly

When boiling the sweet potatoes, ensure that the cubes are relatively uniform in size to promote even cooking. I recommend cutting them into 1-inch pieces, which should take about 15 minutes to become tender. You can check doneness by poking a piece with a fork; it should slide in easily without resistance. Overcooking can lead to watery mash, so keep a close eye on them.

Once drained, let the sweet potatoes sit for a few minutes before mashing. This allows some of the steam to escape, preventing excess moisture that could make your slider mix too wet. A potato masher works well, but for a smoother texture, you might consider using a fork or even a hand mixer on low speed for a quick blend.

Creating the Perfect Patty

For your slider patties, ensure your mixture holds together but isn’t overly dry. The combination of mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, and breadcrumbs provides the perfect binding. If your mixture feels too wet, adding a bit more breadcrumbs can help absorb excess moisture. Conversely, if the mix is too dry, a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth can make it more pliable.

When shaping the patties, aim for about 2 inches in diameter and about half an inch thick. This helps them cook evenly without burning. Cook each patty until they develop a nice golden-brown crust, which typically takes about 5 minutes per side over medium heat. I like to slightly press them down while cooking to ensure even contact with the skillet.

Flavorful Avocado Crema and Variations

The avocado crema adds a creamy, tangy balance to the sweet potato sliders. Make sure to choose a ripe avocado; it should yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a vibrant green color inside. Adding lime juice not only enhances flavor but also helps prevent oxidation, keeping your crema bright and fresh longer. Adjust the lime juice to your taste for more or less tang.

You can also customize the crema by incorporating ingredients like garlic powder, jalapeño, or cilantro to deepen the flavor. If you're looking for a nutty twist, consider adding a spoonful of tahini or peanut butter to the mix. This not only introduces a new flavor dimension but also provides a creamy consistency that clings beautifully to the slider.

Serving Suggestions

These sweet potato sliders can be served on their own as a light snack or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider adding toppings like pickled red onions, sliced jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce. The added crunch and acidity from these toppings can create a delightful contrast with the creamy avocado.

For an extra touch, serve the sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a light aioli for dipping. You can prepare the fries alongside the sliders, utilizing the oven space effectively. Simply cut and season the sweet potatoes and roast them while the sliders are cooking for a cohesive meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep. Prepare the sweet potato mixture and shape the patties, then refrigerate them for up to two days before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the final taste. Just remember to cover the patties tightly to prevent drying out.

If you're looking to save even more time, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time on each side.