Delicious and hearty Vegan Sweet Potato Lentil Patties with creamy Avocado Sauce—wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy meal or snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-rich: Full of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Naturally gluten-free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- Easy to make: Simple steps with everyday ingredients.
- Meal prep friendly: Make ahead and store for busy days.
- Crispy & satisfying: Pan-fried for a golden, crunchy texture.
- Flavorful and fresh: Cilantro, cumin, and lime bring brightness.
- Vegan and dairy-free: 100% plant-based ingredients.
- Family-friendly: A hit with both adults and kids.
- Customizable: Switch herbs or spices to fit your taste.
- Perfect pairing: Creamy avocado sauce takes it to the next level.
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¾ cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup dairy-free yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt to taste
- Water to thin, as needed
Directions
- Boil sweet potatoes in salted water for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Simmer red lentils in water for 10 minutes until soft but still intact. Drain thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Mix in cooked lentils, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs.
- Shape the mixture into 8–10 firm patties. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crisp.
- To make the avocado sauce, blend the avocado, yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and salt until smooth. Add water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the warm patties with a generous drizzle of avocado sauce.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy version.
- Different herbs: Swap cilantro for parsley or basil.
- Oven-baked: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- No breadcrumbs: Use oat flour or crushed nuts for a grain-free version.
- Extra crunch: Coat patties in crushed cornflakes or seeds before frying.
- Asian twist: Add ginger and soy sauce for a new flavor profile.
- Add veggies: Mix in grated carrots or zucchini.
- Sauce options: Serve with tahini, hummus, or vegan sriracha mayo.
- Mini patties: Great for snacks or party appetizers.
- Wrap it up: Serve in lettuce leaves or pita with greens.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked patties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Lasts up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet for best texture, or bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I Use Green Or Brown Lentils Instead Of Red?
Red lentils are preferred for texture and quick cooking, but you can use others if fully cooked and drained.
Do I Have To Peel The Sweet Potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer more fiber.
Can I Bake These Instead Of Frying?
Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What Can I Use Instead Of Yogurt In The Sauce?
Use a bit of olive oil or soaked cashews blended with lime juice and water for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
Are These Patties Good For Meal Prep?
Absolutely—they keep well and reheat beautifully for quick lunches or dinners.
Can I Make Them Without Breadcrumbs?
Yes—use ground oats, almond flour, or crushed flaxseeds as a binder.
How Do I Keep Them From Falling Apart?
Make sure the lentils are well-drained and the patties are chilled before cooking.
What Should I Serve These With?
Great with a side salad, roasted veggies, or in a wrap with greens and extra sauce.
Is The Sauce Spicy?
No, it’s creamy and mild—but you can add jalapeño or hot sauce to taste.
How Can I Make These Nut-Free?
They are naturally nut-free as written; just be sure to use a nut-free yogurt alternative.
Conclusion
These vegan sweet potato lentil patties with avocado sauce are a satisfying and healthy addition to your plant-based recipe rotation. Crispy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, they’re ideal for meal prep, quick lunches, or a family-friendly dinner. Whip up a batch today and enjoy a delicious way to eat more veggies!
Discover More Plant-Based Goodness
Looking for more delicious, wholesome recipes to accompany your Vegan Sweet Potato Lentil Patties? Pair them with this refreshing Carrot and Lentil Salad with Creamy Hummus for a protein-packed meal, or elevate your veggie spread with hearty Roasted Parmesan-Crusted Cauliflower Steaks. Craving a light snack? These Zucchini Pizza Bites are both healthy and fun to eat. For a Mediterranean twist, try the earthy Mediterranean White Beans & Greens, or add some crunch with savory Crispy Garlic Mushroom Bites. Each recipe brings a new layer of flavor and texture to your plant-based journey.
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Vegan Sweet Potato Lentil Patties With Avocado Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Crispy, protein-packed sweet potato and red lentil patties paired with a creamy avocado cilantro sauce. This vibrant, plant-based meal is gluten-free, satisfying, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¾ cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup dairy-free yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 small garlic clove
- Salt to taste
- Water to thin, as needed
Instructions
- Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Simmer red lentils in water for 10 minutes, until soft but still intact. Drain thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Stir in cooked lentils, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.
- Shape into 8–10 firm patties. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to set.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry patties for 3–4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden.
- For the avocado sauce, blend avocado, yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and salt until creamy. Thin with water if needed.
- Serve warm patties drizzled with avocado sauce.
Notes
- Make sure lentils are well-drained to avoid a soggy mixture.
- These patties can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for a healthier option—bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Avocado sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion