Save to Pinterest Golden, flavorful patties made from sweet potato and red lentils, pan-seared to a crisp and served with a creamy avocado cilantro sauce. These nutrient-dense patties are perfect for a healthy snack, appetizer, or light meal, offering a satisfying crunch with a vibrant, zesty finish.
Save to Pinterest Combining the sweetness of grated sweet potato with the earthy texture of red lentils, these patties are seasoned with cumin, paprika, and coriander for a warm, fusion-inspired flavor profile. The accompanying avocado sauce adds a cool, creamy element that ties the dish together perfectly.
Ingredients
- For the Patties
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- Olive oil, for pan-frying
- For the Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (dairy or plant-based)
- Salt, to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin as needed)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Add the red lentils to a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the lentils are soft and most of the water is absorbed. Drain excess water and let the lentils cool slightly.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated sweet potato, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, pepper, chopped cilantro, and flour. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together. Let sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the mixture to bind.
- Step 3
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. With damp hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small patties.
- Step 4
- Cook the patties in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Step 5
- For the sauce, combine avocado, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, yogurt, salt, and 2 tablespoons water in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Add more water as needed for a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Step 6
- Serve the patties warm, topped or dipped with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Allowing the mixture to rest for at least 10 minutes is crucial as it helps the flour and sweet potato moisture bind everything together, preventing the patties from falling apart in the pan.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor or heat, add chili powder or finely chopped jalapeño to the patty mixture. You can also substitute chickpea flour for a gluten-free option that adds even more protein.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these patties warm with fresh greens or tucked into wraps for a fuller meal. They can also be frozen after cooking; simply reheat in a skillet or oven to restore their original crispness.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties deliver fantastic flavor and texture in every bite.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes after mixing to allow ingredients to bind. Using damp hands when shaping helps maintain structure. Cooking in a preheated skillet with enough oil creates a crispy exterior that holds everything together.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, shape the uncooked patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked patties freeze well for up to 3 months—reheat in a skillet or oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes to restore crispness.
- → What can I substitute for the flour?
Chickpea flour works perfectly for a gluten-free version and adds a subtle nutty flavor. Almond flour or breadcrumbs can also bind the mixture, though you may need to adjust the quantity slightly.
- → How do I get the crispiest results?
Ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding patties—medium heat allows even cooking without burning. Don't overcrowd the pan, and avoid flipping too early; wait until a golden crust forms, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- → Can I bake these instead of frying?
Bake at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush lightly with oil before baking for better browning, though the texture will be less crispy than pan-frying.
- → What else can I serve with these patties?
Fresh mixed greens, cucumber slices, or warm naan bread make excellent accompaniments. Try tucking them into wraps with lettuce and tomatoes, or serve atop grain bowls with quinoa and roasted vegetables.