Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love these Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties! They're not only packed with nutrients, but they also offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that I can't get enough of. The sweetness of the potatoes, combined with the earthiness of lentils and warm spices, makes every bite a treat. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these patties have become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, they're super easy to make, allowing me to whip up a batch in no time!
When I first made these Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. I used roasted sweet potatoes and cooked lentils, which contributed both a natural sweetness and a hearty texture. The key is to mash the sweet potatoes well so that the patties hold their shape while baking. I also added herbs and spices for extra flavor, making these patties a vibrant addition to any meal.
One evening, I served them with a homemade tahini sauce, and it transformed the experience entirely. The creaminess of the sauce complemented the patties perfectly. I recommend experimenting with different spices or even adding some chopped greens like spinach for added nutrition. Each time I make them, I discover new ways to enjoy these patties!
Why You'll Love These Patties
- Nutritious blend of sweet potatoes and lentils
- Versatile dish that can be served in various ways
- Great for meal prep and family-friendly
The Role of Sweet Potatoes and Lentils
Sweet potatoes are not just a flavorful component of these patties; they add a natural sweetness and creaminess that balances the earthy notes of lentils. Roasting them enhances their caramelization, delivering a deeper flavor. When selecting sweet potatoes, opt for those that are firm and blemish-free for the best texture. If you're in a pinch, butternut squash can serve as a good alternative, providing a similar sweetness and texture.
Lentils bring a hearty protein boost to these patties. They not only contribute to the overall nutritional profile but also help bind the mixture together, thanks to their unique texture. Cooked green or brown lentils work best, as they hold their shape after cooking. If you only have red lentils, they can be used, but they'll create a softer mixture that may require additional breadcrumbs for consistency.
Tips for Perfect Patties
To ensure your patties hold together during cooking, make sure the sweet potatoes are well-mashed and combined with the lentils before forming them. If the mixture feels too wet, adding a bit more breadcrumbs can help firm it up. Use your hands to create even patties, pressing them together gently; this helps maintain their shape during baking.
Baking the patties at the right temperature is crucial for achieving a golden-brown exterior. Flipping them halfway through the baking process lets both sides crisp up evenly, contributing to that satisfying texture. Watch them closely in the final few minutes; they should be golden and slightly firm to the touch. If they seem a little soft, an extra 5 minutes in the oven can do wonders.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make the perfect patties:
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ensure everything is measured correctly for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your patties:
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the roasted sweet potatoes. Add in the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, and mix well. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Shape the Patties
Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches wide. Place the patties on a lined baking sheet.
Bake the Patties
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the patties warm, garnished with fresh parsley. They can be enjoyed alone or with a dipping sauce!
Enjoy these delicious patties either hot or cold, perfect for any meal!
Pro Tips
- For added texture, you can incorporate chopped nuts into the patties. This gives them a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties can be served in a variety of ways. For a fun twist, you can make mini versions and serve them as appetizers at your next gathering. Pair them with a zesty yogurt dip or a spicy dipping sauce to elevate the flavor further. They also make a fantastic addition to a salad for a balanced meal.
If you want to make them a full meal, consider placing the patties in a whole-grain pita or wrap with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce. This not only enhances the flavors but also adds a satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top can also introduce a savory contrast to the sweetness of the patties.
Make-Ahead and Storage
For convenient meal prep, these patties can be made ahead of time. Once formed, they can be frozen for up to three months. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and allows for easy portioning later.
When you're ready to enjoy them, you can bake the frozen patties directly from the freezer; just add a few more minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, they can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight, making them quick to bake after a busy day. Reheat cooled patties in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness, rather than using a microwave which may make them soft.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
→ What can I serve with these patties?
They pair wonderfully with a side salad, tahini sauce, or even in a burger bun as a sandwich!
→ Can I use other legumes instead of lentils?
Absolutely! You can substitute with cooked chickpeas or black beans for a different flavor.
→ How do I make them spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra kick!
Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties
I absolutely love these Baked Sweet Potato Lentil Patties! They're not only packed with nutrients, but they also offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that I can't get enough of. The sweetness of the potatoes, combined with the earthiness of lentils and warm spices, makes every bite a treat. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these patties have become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, they're super easy to make, allowing me to whip up a batch in no time!
Created by: Georgia Lane
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for about 25 minutes, or until tender.
In a large bowl, mash the roasted sweet potatoes. Add in the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, and mix well. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches wide. Place the patties on a lined baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.
Serve the patties warm, garnished with fresh parsley. They can be enjoyed alone or with a dipping sauce!
Extra Tips
- For added texture, you can incorporate chopped nuts into the patties. This gives them a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 8g