Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce Recipe
These crispy sweet potato and red lentil patties are a delicious and nutritious vegetarian snack or meal option. Packed with wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes, red lentils, and fresh spices, these patties are pan-fried to golden perfection and served with a refreshing creamy avocado cilantro sauce. Perfect for a healthy lunch, dinner, or appetizer, they offer a comforting texture and vibrant flavors that delight the palate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 patties 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
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 cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- Olive oil, for pan-frying
Avocado Cilantro Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
- Salt, to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
Instructions
- Cook Lentils: Add red lentils to a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and most of the water is absorbed. Drain any excess water and allow the lentils to cool slightly.
- Prepare Patty Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated sweet potato, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, ground coriander, salt, pepper, chopped fresh cilantro, and flour. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together. Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Shape and Cook Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Scoop portions of the mixture and form them into small patties with your hands. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and crispy. Cook the patties in batches as needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Make Avocado Cilantro Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, fresh cilantro, garlic clove, lime juice, plain yogurt, salt, and 2–3 tablespoons of water. Blend until the sauce is smooth and creamy, adding more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the patties warm, either topped with or dipped into the creamy avocado cilantro sauce for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use chickpea flour instead of regular flour.
- Ensure the patties are cooked on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet for crispiness.
- The avocado sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one day; add lime juice to help prevent browning.
- You can add finely chopped green chili or chili flakes to the patties mixture for an extra kick.
Keywords: sweet potato patties, red lentil patties, vegetarian snack, avocado cilantro sauce, healthy fritters, gluten-free option
