The Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Recipe is one of those delightful, wholesome dishes that combines vibrant flavors and textures in every bite. Imagine golden, crunchy patties bursting with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, the earthiness of red lentils, and the subtle warmth of fragrant spices—perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This recipe brings together simple, nourishing ingredients that create a satisfying meal, whether as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger spread. If you’re looking for a plant-based treat that’s both comforting and exciting, these patties will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role in balancing flavor, texture, and color to make these patties truly irresistible.
- 1 cup red lentils: Provides a soft, protein-rich base that binds the patties together while adding a subtle nuttiness.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and grated: Adds natural sweetness and moisture for tender patties with a lovely orange hue.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings a gentle sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated: Gives a fresh, zesty kick to complement the spices.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and a mild smoky note.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Brings citrusy undertones that brighten the mix.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste): Provides a gentle heat for balance—no overpowering spice here.
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Offers vibrant herbal freshness and color contrast.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free): The binding agent that helps the patties hold their shape during cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying: For that perfect golden, crispy exterior.
How to Make Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
Start by rinsing your red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Then, combine them with 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer gently for about 15 minutes. You want the lentils to be soft but not mushy, so keep an eye on them. After cooking, drain any excess water. This sets the base for your patties, packing them with protein and creating a creamy texture inside.
Step 2: Combine the Veggies and Aromatics
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked lentils, grated sweet potatoes, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh grated ginger. This blend is the heart of the patties—the sweet potato adds moisture and richness, while onion, garlic, and ginger introduce layers of flavor that sing in every bite.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Next, sprinkle in the ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, chopped cilantro, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure every morsel is evenly seasoned. These spices elevate the patties from simple to spectacular, adding warmth, citrus notes, and a well-rounded palate.
Step 4: Add the Flour and Form the Mixture
Gradually fold in the flour, stirring until the mixture holds together nicely and can be shaped without falling apart. The flour acts as a binder, making sure your patties stay intact while frying. If it feels too wet, a little more flour will help; if it’s too dense, a splash of water can loosen it up gently.
Step 5: Shape Your Patties
With your hands, form the mixture into patties about 2 inches in diameter and half an inch thick. You’ll end up with roughly 10 to 12 patties. The size is perfect for a satisfying bite that crisps up evenly and nicely browns on the stovetop.
Step 6: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat your chosen oil over medium heat in a large non-stick skillet. Carefully place the patties in the skillet without crowding them—working in batches works best. Cook each patty for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until they’re beautifully golden and have a crisp crust. This frying step is where the magic happens—the exterior turns into a mouthwatering crispy shell that contrasts the soft inside.
Step 7: Drain Excess Oil
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra oil. Letting them rest a few minutes helps keep them perfectly crisp without greasy spots.
Step 8: Ready to Serve
Serve warm, garnished with extra chopped cilantro or alongside a cooling yogurt dip for a fresh, tangy contrast. These patties are sure to delight everyone at the table!
How to Serve Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint are wonderful garnishes that brighten these patties and give a pop of color. A dollop of plain yogurt or a garlicky tahini sauce also pairs beautifully, balancing the spices with creaminess.
Side Dishes
These patties go hand in hand with a simple salad of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a light, refreshing meal. You can also serve them alongside roasted vegetables or a warm grain like quinoa or couscous for a wholesome dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the patties as sliders in small buns with crunchy pickles and a smear of harissa mayo for a fun, casual party snack. Alternatively, crumble them over mixed greens as a protein-packed salad topper or stuff them into warm pita bread with fresh veggies and sauce for an easy lunch wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover patties are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this delicious recipe even on busy days.
Freezing
You can freeze the patties after cooking by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your patties in a skillet over medium heat until crispy again, or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that delightful crispiness intact.
FAQs
Can I make these patties gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for chickpea flour or another gluten-free flour of your choice to keep these patties gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
How spicy are the patties?
The chili powder adds just a gentle heat that nicely complements the spices without being overwhelming. You can always adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences or leave it out for a milder version.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The patties won’t be as crispy as when fried, but baking makes for a healthier alternative.
What can I serve with these for a full meal?
Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or a grain like brown rice or quinoa for a balanced and filling meal that’s loaded with nutrients.
Are these patties vegan?
They sure are! And their simplicity makes them a fantastic plant-based protein source that anyone can enjoy, whether vegan or not.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Recipe. It’s a recipe that feels both comforting and exciting, nourishing and flavorful, all at once. Whether you’re sharing them with friends over a cozy meal or packing them for a healthy lunch, these patties are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied appetites. Don’t hesitate to dive into this recipe and let it become one of your tried-and-true favorites in the kitchen!
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Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 10-12 patties
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties are a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian snack or appetizer. Combining tender red lentils with sweet grated potatoes and aromatic spices, these patties are pan-fried to a golden, crispy perfection. Perfect served warm with a refreshing yogurt dip or garnished with fresh cilantro, they make a wholesome and satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook Lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until lentils are soft but not mushy. Drain any excess water.
- Prepare Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated sweet potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Add Spices and Herbs: Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, chopped cilantro, and salt and pepper to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until the mixture comes together and holds its shape when formed into a ball.
- Shape Patties: Shape the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick. You should get approximately 10-12 patties.
- Heat Oil and Fry: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the patties in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the patties warm, garnished with additional cilantro or accompanied by a side of yogurt dip.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with chickpea flour.
- Adjust the chili powder to your desired spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- These patties can be kept warm in a low oven (200°F/90°C) while frying the remaining batches.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven to retain crispness.
- Adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice before serving complements the flavors nicely.
