Sweet Potato Patties with Red Lentils & Tangy Tahini Dressing

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 20–25 minutes

Total time: ~45 minutes

 Ingredients:

 For the Patties (Makes ~10):

1 cup red lentils, rinsed

1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced

½ small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp cumin

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

¼ cup chopped parsley or cilantro

½ cup oat flour (or breadcrumbs)

Olive oil or spray (for pan or air fryer)

 For the Tangy Tahini Dressing:

¼ cup tahini

Juice of 1 lemon

1 clove garlic, minced

2–3 tbsp water (to thin)

1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)

Salt to taste

 Instructions:

 Cook the lentils & sweet potato:

In a pot, add rinsed red lentils and sweet potato chunks with 2½ cups water.

Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 15 minutes until lentils are soft and sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Drain off excess liquid and mash slightly — some texture is good!

 Mix the patty base:

In a large bowl, combine the lentil-potato mix with onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, herbs, and oat flour.

Mix well — the mixture should be thick and moldable. If too wet, add more flour or breadcrumbs 1 tbsp at a time.

 Shape the patties:

Scoop ~2 tbsp of the mixture and form into small patties or flattened rounds.

Place on parchment or a plate and chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes if you have time (helps with shaping).

 Cook the patties:

 Air Fryer:

Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly spray the basket and the patties.

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

 Pan Fry:

Heat a little oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.

Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown.

 Make the Tahini Dressing:

In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, maple syrup, and salt.

Add water a spoonful at a time until smooth and pourable.

 Serving Ideas:

Serve over a bed of greens or grain bowl

Add to a wrap or pita with lettuce, cucumber, and dressing

Top with pickled onions or microgreens

 Tips:

These patties freeze well — just reheat in the air fryer or oven.

For a spicier version, add chili flakes or a spoon of harissa to the mix.

Want more crunch? Toss in a spoon of sunflower seeds or chopped nuts.

Why You’ll Love These:

Vegan & gluten-free friendly

High in fiber, plant protein, and flavor

Crispy pan-fried or air-fried

Serve with salad, in wraps, or on their own!