Stepping into the kitchen, I couldn’t help but be tempted by the vibrant colors of my fresh ingredients—a dazzling invite to create something special. Today, I’m excited to share my Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce. What makes this dish a must-try? Not only do these patties come together quickly, making them perfect for busy evenings, but they also pack a nutritious punch that will leave you feeling great. The delightful crunch of the exterior perfectly contrasts with the soft interior, and the creamy avocado sauce adds a refreshing twist that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a gathering or just want a wholesome meal at home, these sweet potato and red lentil patties are sure to become a favorite. Ready to turn your kitchen into a hub of tempting scents and warming flavors? Let’s dive in!

Why are Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties irresistible?

Vibrant Flavors: Every bite bursts with the perfect blend of sweet and savory, thanks to the fresh ingredients and spices.
Nutrient-Dense: Packed with plant-based protein and vitamins, these patties are a wholesome choice for any meal.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up a delicious dish that’s perfect for busy nights.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether serving friends or family, these patties are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair them with a side salad or enjoy as a snack, making them a flexible option for any occasion.

Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Ingredients

For the Patties
• Red Lentils – Provides protein and a soft texture. Note: Can substitute with black beans or chickpeas for different flavors.
• Sweet Potato – Offers natural sweetness and nutrients. Use fresh grated sweet potato for best texture.
• Onion – Adds a savory depth to the patties. Red or yellow onion works well.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor. Freshly minced is preferable.
• Cumin, Paprika, Ground Coriander – Spices to add warmth and complexity. Adjust based on preference for heat and flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning. To taste.
• Cilantro – Fresh herb for added flavor and garnish. Can be substituted with parsley or omitted if desired.
• Flour – Helps bind the mixture. Use all-purpose or gluten-free flour as needed.
• Olive Oil – For frying, adding richness. Use coconut oil or avocado oil as alternatives.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Avocado – Base of the creamy sauce, providing healthy fats. Ensure it is ripe for smooth blending.
• Lime Juice – Balances the richness of avocado with acidity. Substitute lemon juice if necessary.
• Yogurt – Adds creaminess to the sauce. Use Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES

Step 1: Cook the Lentils
Begin by bringing 1 cup of red lentils and 2 cups of water to a rapid boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover, simmering for 10-12 minutes until the lentils are soft and most of the water is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then remove from heat and let cool slightly before proceeding.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils with 1 grated sweet potato, 1 finely chopped onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Add spices such as 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a dash of ground coriander, along with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold the mixture together, incorporating 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro and enough flour to bind, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes for flavors to meld.

Step 3: Form the Patties
With clean hands, take portions of the sweet potato and red lentil mixture and shape them into palm-sized patties, making sure they are compact. Place the patties on a plate, ensuring they do not touch, and prepare them for frying. This step allows the SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES to maintain their shape during cooking.

Step 4: Fry the Patties
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the patties to the skillet without overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the patties are frying, prepare the creamy avocado cilantro sauce. In a blender, combine 1 ripe avocado, 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, 1 garlic clove, the juice of 1 lime, and 1/2 cup of yogurt. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to adjust the consistency. Taste, and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve the Patties
Once the SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES are crispy and golden, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm, drizzling or topping the patties with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce. These delightful patties make a great appetizer or light dinner, so enjoy the flavors and textures with each bite!

What to Serve with Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties?

Your cooking journey is about to get even more delightful with these vibrant patties as the star of your meal!

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, lightly dressed salad provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the patties beautifully. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added color.
Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, protein-packed side offers a nutty flavor and complements the textures of the crispy sweet potato & red lentil patties, creating a wholesome plate.
Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables, like carrots and zucchini, add a sweet caramelized touch, enhancing the dish’s overall depth while keeping it nutritious.
Creamy Hummus: A side of smooth hummus brings a delightful contrast in texture and a hearty flavor that pairs perfectly with the delightful crunch of the patties.
Spicy Salsa: A zesty salsa or pico de gallo adds a burst of bright flavors, balancing the flavors of the patties while giving a pleasant kick.
Lemon Mint Water: Cool and refreshing, this drink brightens up the meal with a hint of citrus and herbal notes, perfectly matching the vibrant nature of the patties.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This aromatic rice dish, infused with fresh lime and cilantro, ties in with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce, enhancing the flavor experience.
Avocado Toast: For a unique finisher, serve your patties alongside avocado toast topped with radish slices; it’s a trendy twist that keeps the flavors cohesive.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture (step 2) up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the cooked lentils, grated sweet potato, onion, garlic, spices, cilantro, and flour in a bowl. Cover it tightly and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When ready to cook, form patties and fry as instructed in steps 3 and 4, ensuring a crispy exterior. You can also make the creamy avocado cilantro sauce up to 3 days ahead—just blend the ingredients and store in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze, providing you with delicious, homemade satisfaction with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties

Timing is Key: Allow the mixture to rest for about 5-10 minutes before cooking. This helps improve the binding of the SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES, leading to sturdier results.

Don’t Overcrowd: When frying, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain that delightful crispy texture.

Adjusting Consistency: If your mixture feels too wet or loose, sprinkle in a bit more flour. This adjustment should help maintain the patties’ shape during frying.

Flip with Care: Use a spatula to delicately flip the patties to prevent them from breaking apart. Taking your time here pays off with perfectly crispy sides.

Serve with Extras: Offer additional creamy avocado cilantro sauce on the side for dipping. This enhances the experience, allowing for more of that irresistible flavor with every bite.

SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing these scrumptious patties to suit your tastes!

Legume Swap: Easily replace red lentils with black beans or chickpeas for a delightful twist on texture.
Herb Infusion: Substitute cilantro with fresh dill or parsley to change up the herbaceous flavor and brightness.
Spicier Kick: Increase the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery burst.
Grain Alternative: Replace flour with oat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option that still holds everything together perfectly.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in finely grated zucchini or carrots for an extra veggie boost and added moisture.
Creaminess Upgrade: For an even silkier sauce, try using coconut cream instead of yogurt in your avocado sauce.
Baked Option: Bake the patties instead of frying them for a healthier alternative—just brush them with olive oil and bake at 375°F until golden.
Dipping Sauce Variety: Explore different flavors by mixing your avocado sauce with tahini or adding in a splash of sriracha for an adventurous twist.

With these ideas, there’s no limit to how you can make these SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES uniquely yours! Enjoy cooking and don’t forget to check out how easy it is to make your own homemade sauces for a delightful dip!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties

Airtight Container: Store leftover SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious!

Freezer: For longer storage, place the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, pan-fry the thawed patties in a bit of olive oil over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until heated through and crispy again.

Avoid Microwaving: While tempting, reheating in the microwave may make them soggy. Stick to stovetop methods for the best texture.

Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe sweet potatoes for the patties?
Absolutely! When selecting sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm with smooth skin and devoid of blemishes or dark spots. They should feel heavy for their size. If you find any soft spots or wrinkles, it’s best to give those a pass as they may be overripe.

How long can I store leftover Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties?
You can store leftover SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are fully cooled before storing, as this will help maintain their crispiness!

Can I freeze the patties for later?
Yes, freezing is a fantastic option! Lay the uncooked patties on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply pan-fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

What should I do if my mixture is too wet?
If the mixture feels too wet to form patties, don’t worry! Add a little more flour, gradually, until the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape. I often recommend starting with a tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition until you reach the desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for these patties?
Very! If you have allergies, be mindful of the flour you use. For a gluten-free version, opt for almond flour or other gluten-free substitutes. Additionally, ensure the yogurt used in the creamy sauce is dairy-free if you’re serving someone with lactose intolerance. Lastly, while cilantro adds a fresh touch, it can be omitted if anyone at your table has a strong aversion to its flavor.

How should I reheat leftover patties to maintain their crispy texture?
When reheating, I strongly recommend avoiding the microwave, as it can make the patties soggy. Instead, pan-fry the thawed patties in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until heated through and crispy again. This method can bring back that delicious texture!