Baked Sweet Potato and Lentil Patties
Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration
I absolutely love making these Baked Sweet Potato and Lentil Patties as they are not only delicious but also super nutritious. The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils creates a lovely texture that's both filling and satisfying. We always keep some in the fridge for a quick snack or a hearty meal paired with a fresh salad. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead!
During my quest to find healthy yet indulgent snacks, I stumbled upon the combination of sweet potatoes and lentils. I was pleasantly surprised by how well they complemented each other, offering a wonderful balance of sweetness and heartiness.
After trying various seasonings, I learned that a touch of cumin and coriander elevates the flavor profile immensely. These patties are a fantastic addition to my meal prep routine, ensuring I always have a nutritious option ready. I love serving them with a zesty yogurt dip!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious ingredients packed with plant-based protein
- A delightful mix of flavors and textures in each bite
- Ideal for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
Perfecting Your Patties
When preparing the sweet potatoes, ensure they are evenly chopped into chunks of similar size, about 1-inch pieces, for even cooking. Boiling them for around 15 minutes is ideal; you'll know they're ready when a fork can easily pierce through a piece. After mashing, aim for a smooth and creamy consistency without any lumps, which aids in perfectly shaping the patties later on.
Shaping the patties requires a gentle touch. If the mixture feels too sticky, lightly wet your hands with water or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Each patty should be about 2 to 3 inches in diameter; this ensures they cook evenly in the oven. To get a nice golden crust, try not to crowd them on the baking sheet; leave space for air circulation.
Ingredient Insights
Lentils provide not just protein but also fiber, lending a hearty texture to the patties. Utilizing cooked lentils, whether from a can or boiled, means you cut down on prep time. If you prefer a different legume, black beans or chickpeas can be excellent substitutes; just mash them well before incorporating with the sweet potato.
Breadcrumbs can be substituted with gluten-free options like oat flour or ground almonds to cater to dietary restrictions. Opt for whole-grain breadcrumbs for added nutrition; they will also contribute a nice crunch. Additionally, mixing in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast gives the patties a boost of umami flavor without adding extra fat.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water for about 15 minutes until they are tender.
Mix Ingredients
To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
Shape the Patties
Using your hands, form the mixture into patties, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
Bake the Patties
Brush the tops with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the mixture. You can also serve these patties with a tangy dipping sauce to enhance their flavors.
Make-Ahead and Storage
These patties are ideal for meal prepping. After baking, allow them to cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I often make a double batch to ensure I have some ready for a quick snack or lunch.
For longer storage, consider freezing the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
These sweet potato and lentil patties can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them on a bed of greens with a drizzle of tahini or yogurt dressing for a refreshing salad. Alternatively, place them in a whole-grain pita with your favorite veggies and a squeeze of lemon for a delicious sandwich.
For a more indulgent option, top the patties with avocado slices or a spicy salsa. They also pair well with homemade hummus or a side of roasted vegetables, making them a versatile dish suitable for any meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these patties?
Yes! These patties freeze well. You can freeze them before or after baking. Just ensure they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
→ What can I substitute for lentils?
If you don’t have lentils, chickpeas or black beans can work as a great substitute for added protein and texture.
→ How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make these patties vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan! All the ingredients are plant-based.
Baked Sweet Potato and Lentil Patties
I absolutely love making these Baked Sweet Potato and Lentil Patties as they are not only delicious but also super nutritious. The combination of sweet potatoes and lentils creates a lovely texture that's both filling and satisfying. We always keep some in the fridge for a quick snack or a hearty meal paired with a fresh salad. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead!
Created by: Linnea Porter
Recipe Type: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 patties
What You'll Need
For the Patties
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in a pot of water for about 15 minutes until they are tender. Drain and mash them in a large bowl.
To the mashed sweet potatoes, add the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
Using your hands, form the mixture into patties, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Place them on a lined baking sheet.
Brush the tops with olive oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the mixture. You can also serve these patties with a tangy dipping sauce to enhance their flavors.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 6g