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
- Place the diced sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Patty Mixture
- In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly broken down, leaving a few chunks for texture.
- Add the cooked sweet potatoes to the bowl and mash them together with the chickpeas.
- Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and cilantro.
Step 3: Season the Patties
- Add the breadcrumbs, oat flour, cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- 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
- 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
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the patties in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Tahini Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt.
- Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust salt and lemon to taste.
- 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
- Chilling Tip: Chilling the mixture before frying helps firm up the patties, making them easier to handle.
- 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.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
- Tahini Sauce Variations: Add a bit of ground cumin or smoked paprika to the tahini sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and oat flour to make this dish gluten-free.
- 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.