New Zealand Kumara and Lamb Fritters
Savory fritters made with mashed kumara (sweet potato) and shredded lamb, seasoned with ginger, soy, and coriander. These are a versatile and delicious way to use leftover lamb and kumara, perfect as an appetizer or a light meal.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Kumara (sweet potatoes)(peeled and cubed)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil(plus extra for frying)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tsp Fresh ginger(grated)
- 200 g Cooked shredded lamb(leftover or pre-cooked)
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander(chopped)
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(to taste)
- 0.5 cup Flour(for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the kumara in a pot of salted water and cook for about 10-15 minutes until tender. Drain well and mash roughly with a fork. Let it cool slightly.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
In a large bowl, combine the mashed kumara, the cooked onion and garlic mixture, shredded lamb, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chopped coriander. Mix well to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure the lamb is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. - 4
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Divide the mixture into eight equal portions and shape them into patties (fritters).
- 5
Place the flour on a shallow plate. Lightly dust each fritter in the flour, shaking off any excess.
💡 Tip: This helps to create a crispier exterior. - 6
Heat enough olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat to shallow-fry the fritters. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and heated through.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. - 7
Drain the fritters on paper towels. Serve hot with a side salad and sweet chili sauce.
💡 Tip: These are best served immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If you don't have leftover lamb, you can cook and shred lamb mince for this recipe.
- ✓Add a pinch of chili flakes to the mixture for a bit of heat.
- ✓For a vegetarian option, omit the lamb and add grated cheese or finely chopped vegetables.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of chopped mint to the mixture.
- Serve with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream.