Sweet Potato and Chickpea Patties with Tahini Sauce

Introduction

Sweet Potato & Chickpea Patties with Tahini Sauce offer a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits. These crispy, golden patties are bursting with wholesome ingredients like mashed sweet potatoes, protein-packed chickpeas, and aromatic spices. They’re lightly pan-fried for a satisfying crunch and served with a creamy tahini sauce, which adds a rich, nutty flavor to each bite. Ideal for a light lunch, a healthy snack, or a vegetarian dinner, these patties are simple to make, full of nutrients, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and vegan!

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
  • 1/4 cup oat flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Tahini Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons water (or more for desired consistency)

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

  1. Place the diced sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
  3. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Patty Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly broken down, leaving a few chunks for texture.
  2. Add the cooked sweet potatoes to the bowl and mash them together with the chickpeas.
  3. Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and cilantro.

Step 3: Season the Patties

  1. Add the breadcrumbs, oat flour, cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If too sticky, add a bit more breadcrumbs or flour.

Step 4: Shape the Patties

  1. Form the mixture into 8-10 patties, roughly 1/2 inch thick. You can use your hands or a measuring cup to keep the size uniform.

Step 5: Fry the Patties

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Fry the patties in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Make the Tahini Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt.
  2. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust salt and lemon to taste.
  3. If desired, add a bit of maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.

COOKING NOTE:

  • For a firmer texture, chill the mixture in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before shaping the patties.
  • Use a non-stick pan if you want to reduce the amount of oil or prefer to bake the patties.
  • The patties can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Sweet Potato & Chickpea Patties warm with a drizzle of tahini sauce on top. They pair beautifully with a side of mixed greens, a grain salad like quinoa or couscous, or wrapped in warm pita bread. Add a side of sliced avocado or a fresh tomato salad for a complete and wholesome meal. These patties are also delicious served in a burger bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of the tahini sauce.

Tips

  1. Chilling Tip: Chilling the mixture before frying helps firm up the patties, making them easier to handle.
  2. Storage: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  3. Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
  4. Tahini Sauce Variations: Add a bit of ground cumin or smoked paprika to the tahini sauce for extra depth of flavor.
  5. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and oat flour to make this dish gluten-free.
  6. Add More Protein: For extra protein, consider adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseeds to the patty mixture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Patty with Sauce)

  • Calories: 180
  • Protein: 6g
  • Sodium: 290mg
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Fat: 8g

Conclusion

Sweet Potato & Chickpea Patties with Tahini Sauce are a healthy, delicious, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day. They offer a great way to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet while keeping meals flavorful and exciting. With a combination of creamy sweet potatoes, hearty chickpeas, and a medley of fresh herbs, these patties are filling without being heavy. The tangy tahini sauce ties everything together, adding a creamy and slightly nutty finish that complements the crispy patties perfectly.