Helado de batata y coco (sweet potato pops) is the perfect summer treat, they are easy to make, refreshing, nutritious, and call for few ingredients. Great as an afternoon snack and as a delicious frozen treat, this paleta de batata is always a favorite with kids and grownups.
By - Reviewed: . Original: Jul 26, 2012
Why we ❤️ it
In my head, these coconut and sweet potato pops) and summer are indelibly connected. It starts with a mix of sweet potato, coconut milk, and milk and ends with these amazing popsicles with a creamy texture that kids and grownups will love equally.
As the Dominican saying goes: "Cuando el hambre da calor, la batata es un refresco" (when hunger makes you hot, sweet potatoes are a cold drink). And if it is this insane heat to blame for it, make yourself a sweet potato popsicle, the perfect summer treat.
What's batata?
Batata is what Dominicans call the ubiquitous sweet potato used in our cuisine. Dominican batata is called Japanese yam in English.
Batata can be used in savory dishes and desserts.
Paletas de batata y coco.
Sweet potato pops or helado?
These were available as frozen jars, and in ice pops in plastic bags (esquimalitos) when I was a kid.
Still, homemade popsicles are more environmentally friendly, as you can use the popsicle molds time and time again (some come with reusable popsicle or lollipop sticks).
Top tips
- Batatas: Dominican batatas are technically sweet potatoes, although a different variety from the orangey one available in most countries. You can read more here. You could use whatever sweet potato you find, but bear in mind the texture and flavor will be different.
- Versions: You can use almond milk, or another milk substitute if you wish. Instead of sugar, use a sweetener of your choice if you like. Substitutions may change the flavor, so keep that in mind.
- Spices: Some people would add cinnamon, so if you prefer, add a teaspoon ground cinnamon when you blend it. A pinch of ginger powder is also a great addition if you like the flavor.
- Straining: I didn't find it necessary to, but you can strain the mixture to remove any unblended solids.
About this recipe
This is a simple recipe that only requires a stove, blender, and refrigerator in the way of gadgets, so it's perfect for time-strapped parents.
Once I embarked on this project I realized that sweet potato popsicles are a very good option as a snack for the little ones. Taking care not to make it too sweet, it is not only very refreshing but also quite nutritious.
I am sure there can't be many ways to combine these ingredients, so my recipe won't be far from any other. Let me know if yours is different.
Video
Recipe
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Helado de Batata y Coco [Video+Recipe] Sweet Potato Pops
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound batata, [0.45 kg] (sweet potato), peeled
- 3 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 cups milk (whole or skim), (full fat or evaporated)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sugar (white, granulated), (may not be used all)
Instructions
Boil batata
Cut the sweet potatoes into small pieces. Boil over medium heat in salted water until it's fork-tender. Remove from the water, discard water, and let the batata cool to room temperature. Once cool mash a bit (only necessary if you don't have a strong blender).
Blend
- In the blender container, mix sweet potatoes, milk, coconut milk, vanilla, and sugar. Blend to a liquid state. Taste and add more sugar to taste if you find it necessary (I did not).
Freeze
- Pour into the popsicle molds (Amazon affiliate links) or little paper cups, cover, and insert popsicle sticks int he center of each mold. Freeze solid. Serve once frozen.
Nutrition
Nutritional information is calculated automatically based on ingredients listed. Please consult your doctor if you need precise nutrition information.
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More batata recipes
Batata is an ingredient that has been used on this island for millennia, as it was brought here by the Taino. There are some interesting batata recipes in our collection, from the simple batata asada, to the popular batata frita and my own sweet potato dumpling creation. If you're searching for desserts, you'll love jalea de batata, pan de batata, and the unusual mala rabia.
Culture
When I was a little girl I spent many a summer in the Santo Domingo neighborhood of San Carlos, where one of my aunts lived. Back then it was the kind of old-fashioned middle-class neighborhood you see in movies depicting the Spanish Caribbean. It was a quiet place of tranquil streets and alleys, and colorful old houses that lent itself to childhood exploration.
Besides the sad memories of Hurricane David pounding Santo Domingo into a pulp, the other clear memory I have of those days in San Carlos was walking every afternoon to buy helados de potecitos (homemade ice cream in baby food jars) at a neighbor's house.
Of all the flavors available in those days -some not very healthy - batata (sweet potato) was my favorite. Some time ago I decided to recreate my favorite childhood treat in the form of creamy popsicles.
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