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Highly textured and crispy pan-fried exterior of Sweet Potato Lentil Patties showing visible cooked red lentil specks and sweet potato bits.
FL Recipes

Sweet Potato Lentil Patties: The Ultimate Crispy Pan-Seared Recipe

Master the art of perfectly golden-brown, pan-seared Sweet Potato Lentil Patties. Featuring a crispy, highly textured exterior, visible red lentil specks, and a thick, creamy pale green avocado cilantro sauce. A nutrient-dense, plant-based dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 patties
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Plant-Based
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup dry red lentils Par-cooked for texture
  • 2 cups grated sweet potato Peeled and squeezed of excess moisture
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs Used as a binder
  • 1 large egg Used as a binder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin For seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder For seasoning
  • 1 tsp kosher salt Plus more to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For pan-searing
  • 1 large avocado Pitted and peeled
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves Plus extra chopped for garnish
  • 1 tbsp lime juice Freshly squeezed
  • 1 clove garlic Minced

Equipment

  • 1 Heavy-bottomed Cast-iron Skillet Crucial for achieving an even, golden-brown sear.
  • 1 Box grater Used to grate the sweet potato.
  • 1 Food processor Essential for blending the smooth avocado cilantro sauce.

Method
 

Preparation and Cooking
  1. Boil 1 cup (240ml) of water in a small saucepan. Add the dry red lentils and simmer uncovered for 8-10 minutes until tender but still holding their shape. Drain thoroughly and let cool for 5 minutes.
  2. Using a box grater, shred the peeled sweet potato. Place the grated bits on a clean towel and gently squeeze out excess moisture.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, grated sweet potato, panko breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Mix well and form into 4-6 tightly packed patties. Let rest for 5 minutes.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the patties in the pan and sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes per side until a highly textured, golden-brown crust forms.
  5. In a food processor, blend the avocado, cilantro leaves, lime juice, and garlic clove until smooth. Add a splash of water if needed to achieve a thick, creamy consistency.
  6. Arrange the cooked patties on a plate slightly overlapping. Top each generously with a dollop of the avocado cilantro sauce and sprinkle with extra finely chopped fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 310kcalProtein: 9gFat: 18gFiber: 9g

Notes

Ensure you squeeze the moisture out of the sweet potatoes to guarantee a crispy crust.
Use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes to perfectly reheat leftovers without losing the pan-fried texture.
Keyword Avocado Cilantro Sauce,Sweet Potato Lentil Patties,Veggie Fritters

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