Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried making Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties, you’re in for a real treat! These little gems are not just super tasty but also packed with nutrients, making them the perfect snack for any time of day.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy weekend, trying to use up some sweet potatoes I had lying around.
After a few tweaks, I created something that my whole family adores. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, just heavenly! Plus, they’re vegetarian and full of protein thanks to the red lentils, so you can indulge without the guilt.
Trust me, these patties are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making these delicious Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties. Here’s what you’ll need:
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup red lentils, rinsed thoroughly to remove any dust
1 small onion, finely chopped to add a lovely sweetness
2 cloves garlic, minced for that aromatic punch
1 teaspoon cumin powder, which gives it that warm, earthy flavor
1 teaspoon coriander powder to brighten it up
Salt to taste, so don’t forget this essential seasoning!
Black pepper to taste for a little kick
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour if you prefer)
Oil for frying, enough to coat the bottom of your pan
Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go—this will make the cooking process smooth and oh-so-enjoyable!
How to Prepare CRISPY SWEET POTATO & RED LENTIL PATTIES
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making these Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties is surprisingly simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how delicious they turn out! Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by boiling the sweet potatoes: Place your cubed sweet potatoes in a pot of water, bring it to a boil, and let them cook for about 15 minutes or until they’re nice and soft. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork.
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, let’s tackle those red lentils! In a separate pot, add your rinsed lentils and cover them with water. Cook them on medium heat for about 10 minutes until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
Once your lentils are ready, grab a mixing bowl and mash them up with a fork or potato masher. This doesn’t need to be perfect; just get them mostly smooth.
Now, it’s time to combine! Add the boiled sweet potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and flour to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be shy; get your hands in there if you like!
Form the mixture into patties—about the size of your palm works great. They should be thick enough to hold together but not too bulky.
In a large skillet, heat enough oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small bit of the mixture in; it should sizzle), carefully add your patties.
Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them; nobody wants burnt patties!
When they’re done, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil before serving.
And there you have it—crispy, flavorful patties ready to enjoy! Serve them warm, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patty (serving size: 1 patty). Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.
Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 5g
These patties are not just delicious but also a great way to fuel your body with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy knowing you’re snacking healthy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for a snack or light meal!
Packed with nutrients from sweet potatoes and red lentils, making them a healthy choice.
Deliciously crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—just the right texture!
Versatile flavor profile with spices that can be adjusted to your taste.
Great for meal prep—make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.
Perfectly vegetarian and satisfying, so everyone can enjoy them!
Easy to customize with your favorite dips or toppings, like yogurt or chutney.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
Don’t rush the boiling: Make sure to boil the sweet potatoes until they’re completely soft. This makes them easier to mash and helps the patties hold together better.
Watch the lentils: Keep an eye on the red lentils while they’re cooking. You want them tender but not mushy, so don’t wander too far from the stove!
Adjust the spices: Feel free to tweak the spices to suit your taste. If you like it spicy, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a kick!
Chill the mixture: If your mixture feels too soft to form patties, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape better while frying.
Frying temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties. If it’s too cool, they’ll absorb oil and become greasy instead of crispy. A good test is to drop a small piece of the mixture in—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Giving the patties enough space allows them to cook evenly and get that gorgeous golden crust.
Experiment with toppings: Try serving your patties with different dips like tzatziki, avocado sauce, or even a spicy salsa. The options are endless!
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the crispiest, most delicious patties that your friends and family will rave about!
Variations
One of the best things about these Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties is how versatile they are! You can easily switch things up to keep your taste buds excited. Here are a few fun variations to consider:
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like chopped cilantro, parsley, or dill to the mixture for a burst of freshness. It really elevates the flavor!
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, mix in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You’ll get that nice spicy flavor without overpowering the dish.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some grated cheese, like feta or cheddar, for a creamy, cheesy twist. Just be sure to adjust the flour amount slightly to keep the patties from being too wet.
Asian Flair: Swap out the spices for a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil, and add green onions and ginger for a delightful Asian-inspired version!
Sweet and Savory: Try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the mix for a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory spices.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch and flavor dimension. Just be careful not to overdo it—balance is key!
These variations can truly make your patties unique each time you whip them up, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorite combo!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve made your delightful Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties, you might find a few leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store them properly to keep that crispy goodness intact:
Storing: Allow the patties to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. I love using a glass container for leftovers—it keeps everything fresh and you can see what’s inside! They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the patties. Just layer them between pieces of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent them from sticking together. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer!
Now, when it comes to reheating, we want to keep that perfect texture. Here’s how to do it:
Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method helps to restore that lovely crispiness!
Reheating in a Skillet: If you’re short on time, you can also warm them up in a skillet. Just add a little oil to the pan over medium heat and fry the patties for a few minutes on each side until heated through and crispy again.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you’ll enjoy your crispy, flavorful patties just as much the second time around. Yum!
FAQ Section
Can I make Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties in advance. Just store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This can actually enhance the flavors since they mingle together in the fridge!
Can I bake these patties instead of frying? Yes, you can! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a lined baking sheet. Brush them lightly with oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy. It’s a healthier alternative!
What can I serve with Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties? These patties are amazing on their own, but you can elevate them even more! Serve them with a dollop of yogurt, a zesty chutney, or even a fresh salad on the side. They pair wonderfully with a variety of dips!
How do I know if my patties are cooked through? When frying, look for a beautiful golden brown crust on both sides. If you want to be extra sure, you can break one open to check that it’s heated through and the inside is nice and soft. Trust me, they’ll smell delicious when they’re ready!
Can I freeze Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties? Definitely! Just make sure to cool them completely before freezing. Layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag to prevent sticking. They’ll be good for up to 2 months, and you can reheat them right from frozen!
I share easy, flavorful recipes that make home cooking simple, fun, and totally satisfying. Let's get in the kitchen and create something delicious together!
What do you think?
Share your thoughts, tips, or variations on this recipe!