There is something truly magical about the comforting sweetness of tender sweet potato combined with the nutty, creamy allure of tahini. This Sweet Potato Patties with Tahini Sauce Recipe captures that perfect balance brilliantly. Whether you’re craving a hearty vegetarian burger or a flavorful snack, these patties offer a crispy outside with a soft, spiced center that sings with every bite. The tahini sauce ties it all together, adding a luscious finish that makes this dish unforgettable and satisfying on every level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step toward creating a vibrant dish full of texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, spice, or a bit of crunch, making this Sweet Potato Patties with Tahini Sauce Recipe truly shine.
- Sweet potatoes (2 medium): The star ingredient bringing natural sweetness and a tender texture when cooked.
- Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Helps bind the patties together and adds a subtle crispness.
- Cooked quinoa (1/2 cup): Boosts protein content and adds a delightful nutty bite.
- Onion, finely chopped (1/4 cup): Offers sweetness and a slight crunch when sautéed.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses aromatic depth with every taste.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds warm earthiness to the spice profile.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness.
- Ground turmeric (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a golden hue and mild warmth.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a hint of heat.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and elevates the overall taste.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onions and garlic to fragrant perfection.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami richness and a slight saltiness.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Provides a bright, fresh zing to lift the flavors.
- Ground flaxseed (1 tablespoon): Acts as a natural binder and adds subtle nuttiness.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps incorporate the ground flaxseed and keep the mixture moist.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (2 tablespoons): Injects a burst of freshness and vibrant green color.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon): Sprinkled throughout the patties, offering delightful crunch and a toasty note.
- Tahini (1/4 cup): The creamy sauce base made from sesame seeds, perfect for drizzling.
- Whole wheat flour (1/4 cup): Helps the patties hold their shape without overpowering the flavors.
How to Make Sweet Potato Patties with Tahini Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling and chopping your sweet potatoes into small cubes. This size ensures they cook evenly and become delightfully tender when boiled.
Step 2: Boil Until Soft
Place the chopped sweet potatoes in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then let them cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a fork. This softness is key for a smooth, mashable texture in your patties.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the sweet potatoes cool, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step creates a flavorful base that makes the patties truly pop.
Step 4: Mash and Mix
Drain the sweet potatoes and mash them in a large bowl, leaving some small chunks for texture. Stir in the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, followed by quinoa, breadcrumbs, and all the spices – cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Pour in soy sauce, lemon juice, and a flaxseed-water mixture. Combine everything well for an evenly seasoned batter.
Step 5: Add Cilantro, Sesame Seeds, and Flour
Gently fold in the chopped cilantro and sesame seeds, giving fresh color and satisfying crunch. Gradually mix in the whole wheat flour until your mixture binds together enough to form patties without sticking to your hands.
Step 6: Shape and Cook the Patties
Form the mixture into patties about 3-4 inches wide, pressing firmly so they hold shape. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, aiming for a golden-brown and crispy exterior that contrasts their tender inside.
Step 7: Prepare Tahini Sauce and Serve
While the patties cool slightly, whisk tahini with a little water until drizzling consistency is reached. This luscious sauce complements the warm spices perfectly. Serve the patties drizzled with tahini, either on buns as a delicious burger or simply on their own.
How to Serve Sweet Potato Patties with Tahini Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds on top for a fresh, nutty boost. A squeeze of lemon or a pinch of chili flakes can elevate the dish with an exciting pop of brightness or heat.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. A side of creamy hummus or pickled veggies adds a wonderful tang that complements the tahini sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the patties atop grain bowls with avocado slices and a drizzle of tahini for a nourishing lunch. For a fun twist, make sliders with mini buns and colorful slaws, perfect for gatherings or as an appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the patties separate from the tahini sauce prevents sogginess and keeps textures perfect.
Freezing
Sweet Potato Patties freeze beautifully. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a sealed freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for meal prep.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that fresh-out-of-the-pan texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different grain instead of quinoa?
Absolutely! You can swap cooked quinoa for rice, bulgur, or even couscous. Just make sure it’s fully cooked to maintain the right texture in your patties.
Is there a vegan substitute for the flaxseed?
Ground flaxseed mixed with water acts as a great vegan binder. If you don’t have flaxseed, you can try chia seeds or even mashed banana, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Yes, baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, works well for a healthier option with less oil.
How can I make the tahini sauce thinner?
Add water, a tablespoon at a time, and whisk until you reach your preferred drizzling consistency. Fresh lemon juice can also help lighten it up.
Are these patties gluten-free?
In their original form, they contain breadcrumbs and whole wheat flour, which usually have gluten. Swap these for gluten-free alternatives like gluten-free breadcrumbs and chickpea flour for a gluten-free version.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Potato Patties with Tahini Sauce Recipe is a cozy, nourishing dish that feels as good as it tastes. Every step brings you closer to a meal that’s packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. I encourage you to give these patties a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy sweet potatoes! They’re fantastic for weeknights, gatherings, or whenever you crave something both homey and exciting.
Print
Sweet Potato Patties with Tahini Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegetarian American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sweet Potato Burgers are a nutritious and flavorful vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers. Made with mashed sweet potatoes, quinoa, and a blend of spices, these patties are pan-fried until golden brown and served with a creamy tahini sauce. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, these burgers offer a delightful combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
Tahini Sauce
- 1/4 cup tahini
- Water (to thin tahini to drizzling consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into small cubes, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- Boil Sweet Potatoes: Place the sweet potato cubes in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain and Cool: Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and allow them to cool for a few minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes: In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes using a potato masher or fork until mostly smooth with some small chunks remaining for texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, cooked quinoa, breadcrumbs, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground turmeric, black pepper, salt, soy sauce, lemon juice, ground flaxseed, and water to the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir all ingredients until fully combined and evenly distributed.
- Add Cilantro and Seeds: Fold in chopped fresh cilantro and sesame seeds to incorporate burst of fresh flavor and texture.
- Add Flour and Form Patties: Gradually stir in whole wheat flour until the mixture holds together well. Shape the mixture into 3-4 inch diameter patties, pressing gently to form firm shapes.
- Cook Patties: Heat a non-stick or lightly greased skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Patties: Remove the cooked patties and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Prepare Tahini Sauce: While patties cool, mix tahini with a little water to create a smooth, drizzling consistency.
- Serve: Serve the sweet potato burgers on buns or on their own, topped with tahini sauce. Enjoy warm for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs and whole wheat flour with gluten-free alternatives.
- You can add your favorite burger toppings such as lettuce, tomato, or avocado for added freshness.
- These patties can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes as a healthier alternative to pan-frying.
- If patties are too soft to hold, add a little more flour or breadcrumbs to firm up the mixture.
- Leftover patties store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on a skillet or microwave.
