Crispy Sweet Potato Red Lentil (Print Version)

Golden patties with sweet potato and red lentils, pan-fried until crispy and paired with zesty avocado cilantro sauce.

# What You'll Need:

→ Patties

01 - 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
02 - 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and grated
03 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
08 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
09 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
10 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
11 - Olive oil, for pan-frying

→ Creamy Avocado Cilantro Sauce

12 - 1 ripe avocado
13 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
14 - 1 garlic clove
15 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
16 - 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (dairy or plant-based)
17 - Salt, to taste
18 - 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin as needed)

# Cooking Steps:

01 - Add the red lentils to a saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the lentils are soft and most of the water is absorbed. Drain excess water and let the lentils cool slightly.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated sweet potato, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, pepper, chopped cilantro, and flour. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the mixture to bind.
03 - Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. With damp hands, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small patties.
04 - Cook the patties in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
05 - For the sauce, combine avocado, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, yogurt, salt, and 2 tablespoons water in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Add more water as needed for a creamy, pourable consistency.
06 - Serve the patties warm, topped or dipped with the creamy avocado cilantro sauce.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Nutrient-Dense: Packed with plant-based protein from red lentils and fiber from sweet potatoes.
  • Simple Preparation: Easy-to-follow steps and basic pantry staples make this accessible for any home cook.
  • Customizable: Easily adapted for gluten-free diets and adjustable spice levels.
  • Versatile: Works perfectly as an appetizer, a snack, or a component of a larger meal.
02 -
  • Use damp hands when shaping the patties to prevent the mixture from sticking to your skin.
  • Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the patties to achieve a perfect golden crust.
  • Use a high-quality nonstick skillet to reduce the amount of oil needed for frying.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
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