Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Patties with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce
These flavorful, nutrient-packed Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Patties are a delicious vegetarian delight! Loaded with protein-rich red lentils, aromatic spices, and topped with a velvety avocado cilantro sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of earthy, spicy, and fresh flavors. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these patties are sure to impress!
Why This Recipe Works
Nutrient-Dense & Satisfying: Sweet potatoes and red lentils provide fiber, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins, making these patties both wholesome and filling.
Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level, swap herbs, or add extra veggies like grated carrots or zucchini for a personalized twist.
Meal-Prep Friendly: The patties hold well in the fridge or freezer, making them a great make-ahead option for quick lunches or dinners.
What’s In Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Patties?
- Sweet Potatoes: The base of the patties, adding natural sweetness and a soft texture.
- Red Lentils: Cooked until tender, they provide protein and help bind the patties.
- Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder enhance the savory depth.
- Breadcrumbs: Help firm up the mixture for easy shaping.
- Avocado Cilantro Sauce: A creamy, zesty blend of avocado, lime, cilantro, and Greek yogurt for a refreshing finish.
How To Make Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Patties
This recipe involves three simple steps: cooking the lentils and sweet potatoes, shaping the patties, and blending the sauce. Here’s how:
Step 1: Cook the Lentils & Sweet Potatoes
- Rinse ½ cup red lentils and cook in 1 cup water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain excess water.
- Meanwhile, peel and dice 2 medium sweet potatoes. Steam or boil until fork-tender, then mash.
Step 2: Mix & Shape the Patties
- In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, cooked lentils, ½ cup breadcrumbs, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, and salt to taste.
- Form into 8 equal-sized patties (about ½-inch thick).
Step 3: Cook the Patties
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Step 4: Make the Avocado Sauce
- Blend 1 ripe avocado, ½ cup Greek yogurt, ¼ cup cilantro, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 garlic clove, and salt until smooth.
Sides for Sweet Potato Patties
- Quinoa Salad: A light, protein-packed side with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and caramelized for a savory contrast.
- Warm Pita Bread: Perfect for stuffing with patties and sauce.
- Tangy Slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw with lime dressing.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I Bake Instead of Pan-Fry?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter version.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for 1 month. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
Can I Use Canned Lentils?
Absolutely! Drain and rinse 1 can (15 oz) of lentils, then mash slightly before mixing.
Other Recipes To Try
- Spiced Chickpea & Beetroot Burgers: Vibrant, earthy patties with a tahini drizzle.
- Jalapeño Popper Potato Salad: Creamy, spicy, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
- Mushroom & Walnut Loaf: A hearty, savory vegetarian main with a sticky glaze.
- Beet and Potato Salad: A show-stopping side dish that’s as nutritious as it is beautiful!
- Black Bean & Plantain Fritters: Sweet-savory Caribbean-inspired bites.
- Caprese Potato Salad: A Fresh & Flavorful Summer Side
- Lentil & Spinach Koftas: Middle Eastern-spiced balls in a tomato sauce.
- Gluten-Free Mushroom Burgers: A delicious plant-based alternative that even meat lovers will enjoy!
Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Patties with Avocado Cilantro Sauce
Equipment
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes about 500g, peeled and diced
- ½ cup 100g dried red lentils, rinsed
- ½ cup 50g breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ cup 120g Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro packed
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Cook Lentils & Sweet Potatoes: Boil lentils in 1 cup water for 15 minutes. Drain. Steam sweet potatoes until soft, then mash.
- Mix Patties: Combine mashed sweet potatoes, lentils, breadcrumbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Shape into 8 patties.
- Cook Patties: Heat oil in a skillet. Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
- Blend Sauce: Process all sauce ingredients until smooth. Adjust salt/lime to taste.
- Serve: Drizzle patties with sauce and garnish with extra cilantro.
Notes
- Binding Tip: If the mixture is too soft, add 1-2 tbsp more breadcrumbs.
- Spice Swap: Add ½ tsp chili powder for heat or 1 tsp curry powder for depth.
- Make Ahead: Prep patties (uncooked) and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked patties between parchment paper for up to 1 month.
- Sauce Variations: Substitute cilantro with parsley or add 1 tbsp tahini for richness.
- Bonus Twist: Stuff patties in pita with crunchy slaw!
Nutrition
Enjoy these vibrant patties hot or cold! Share your creations with #SweetPotatoPatties.
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