Sweet potato and chickpea patties are a delightful fusion of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors, making them a perfect choice for vegetarians and anyone seeking a healthier yet satisfying meal. Packed with fiber, protein, and a medley of spices, these patties are versatile enough to serve as a main course, snack, or burger alternative. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful interior, while the creamy cashew-tomato sauce adds a rich tangy-sweet complement to each bite.

This recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate nutrient-rich sweet potatoes and protein-packed chickpeas into your diet. With the right balance of spices and herbs, these patties can cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you prefer mild or bold flavors, you can easily customize the seasoning. Additionally, the sauce is a game-changer, blending roasted cashews, tomato sauce, and a touch of sweetness for a deliciously unique accompaniment.

Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, these patties are baked rather than fried, offering a healthier alternative while retaining their crispy texture. Paired with your favorite sides, salads, or even tucked into a bun, these patties are a crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more. Let’s dive into the details and see how you can create this wholesome dish!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Patties

• 700g | 24 oz | 2 medium sweet potatoes
• 250g | 9 oz chickpeas
• 1 shallot
• 2 garlic cloves
• 15g parsley
• Oil for frying
• 1 tsp cumin (optional for a milder taste)
• 1 tsp dried herbs
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Yogurt with pepper (for serving)

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp cane sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp dried garlic
• 1/4 cup roasted cashews
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or ketchup

Steps to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Steam, boil, or roast the sweet potatoes until soft. Allow them to cool slightly before peeling and mashing them in a large bowl.

Step 2: Make the Patty Mixture

1. Finely chop the shallot, garlic, and parsley.
2. Add the chickpeas to the bowl with the mashed sweet potatoes. Mash them lightly with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for texture.
3. Mix in the shallot, garlic, parsley, and spices (cumin, dried herbs, paprika, and chili flakes).
4. Stir in the nutritional yeast, soy sauce, and salt. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Patties

1. Preheat your oven to 210°C (410°F).
2. Form the mixture into patties using your hands. You should get about 8-10 patties depending on their size.
3. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Brush the patties with sauce (recipe below) and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Blend the roasted cashews with tomato sauce (or ketchup), cane sugar, lemon juice, soy sauce, and dried garlic until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a little water if needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the patties hot, drizzled with the cashew-tomato sauce. Add a dollop of yogurt with pepper for an extra creamy touch if desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Patty with Sauce)

• Calories: ~160 kcal
• Protein: ~4 g
• Carbohydrates: ~25 g
• Fat: ~5 g
• Fiber: ~5 g

FAQs

1. Can I make the patties gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your soy sauce is labeled gluten-free.

2. Can I fry the patties instead of baking?
Absolutely. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the patties until golden brown on each side.

3. Can I make the sauce nut-free?
For a nut-free version, substitute the cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a simpler tomato-based sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Patties

1. Consistency: Ensure the mixture is firm enough to hold its shape. If it feels too wet, add a small amount of breadcrumbs or oat flour.
2. Flavors: Customize the spices to suit your taste preferences. Add coriander, smoked paprika, or turmeric for different flavor profiles.
3. Rest Time: Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet to retain their crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Sauce: Store leftover sauce in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Sweet Potato and Chickpea Patties are a versatile, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as a snack, side, or main dish, their rich flavors and textures make them a standout meal. Paired with the creamy cashew-tomato sauce, they offer a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will delight your taste buds.

Take the time to experiment with your favorite spices and sauces, and enjoy this healthy, plant-based recipe as part of your regular meal rotation. It’s a delicious way to bring variety and nutrition to your table!