Sweet Potato Bhajis Recipe

If you are an affectionado of Indian food, you will already be well aware of onion bhajis, but have you come across Sweet Potato Bhajis? They make delicious finger food for a party or buffet, an ideal starter for a full meal, and are also perfect for a light vegetarian supper.

How to make Sweet Potato Bhajis:

First of all, make the dressing... mix the curry paste and one tablespoon of hot water together in a bowl until it becomes a smooth paste. Whisk in the malt vinegar, then slowly whisk in both oils. Season, to taste, with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Now make the bhajis... finely slice the onions, peel and grate (shred) the sweet potato, finely chop the red chili and chop the coriander. Place the flour into a large bowl and, stirring all the time, gradually mix in enough water to make a smooth batter (you'll need about 3½ fl oz - 100ml of water).

Melt the duck (or goose) fat in a frying pan and gently fry the sliced onions for 5-10 minutes, until golden-brown. Stir the cooked onions, grated sweet potato, chopped chili and coriander into the batter.

Heat at least 2" (5cm) of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pan (or deep fat fryer if you have one). Shape the bhaji mixture into small balls about 1" - 1¼" (2.5cm - 3cm) across and deep-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until crisp and golden-brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on absorbent kitchen paper.

To serve, arrange some watercress on serving plates and place the bhajis on top or alongside. Drizzle over the curry dressing and top with a spoonful of really fresh yoghurt.