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Crispy Sweet Potato & Red Lentil Patties with Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce Recipe

4.6 from 129 reviews

These crispy sweet potato and red lentil patties are a delicious, nutritious, and vegetarian-friendly appetizer or dinner option. Made with tender red lentils, grated sweet potato, and aromatic spices, they are pan-fried to golden perfection and served with a creamy avocado cilantro sauce that adds a refreshing, tangy complement.

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
  • 23 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)

Instructions

  1. Cook Lentils: Add red lentils to a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 10–12 minutes or until the lentils are soft and most of the water has been absorbed. Drain any excess water and allow lentils to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare Pattie Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated sweet potato, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, ground coriander, salt, pepper, chopped cilantro, and flour. Mix well until the mixture holds together. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to improve binding.
  3. Form and Fry Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Scoop portions of the mixture and shape them into small patties. Fry each patty for 3–4 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden, crispy crust. Cook in batches as needed, adding more oil if necessary.
  4. Make Avocado Cilantro Sauce: In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, fresh cilantro, garlic clove, lime juice, plain yogurt, salt, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  5. Serve: Serve the patties warm, either topped with or dipped into the creamy avocado cilantro sauce for a flavorful finish.

Notes

  • Allow the mixture to rest for better binding and easier shaping.
  • Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
  • For a spicier variation, add chili powder or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
  • These patties freeze well; store them in an airtight container and reheat before serving.

Keywords: sweet potato patties, red lentil patties, vegetarian appetizer, gluten-free option, healthy snacks, pan-fried patties, avocado cilantro sauce