Sweet Potato and Tahini Fritters
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sweet potato and tahini fritters are a delightful vegetarian dish. They are seasoned with aromatic spices and served with a creamy tahini sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Sweet potatoes(peeled and grated)
- 0.5 cup Red lentils(uncooked, rinsed)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp Turmeric
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour(or chickpea flour)
- 1 large Egg
- 4 tbsp Olive oil(for frying)
- 3 tbsp Tahini
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 2 tbsp Water(or as needed for sauce)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook the red lentils according to package directions until tender. Drain well and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- 2
In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 more minutes until fragrant. Transfer to the bowl with the cooked lentils.
- 3
Add the grated sweet potatoes, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the lentils and sautéed aromatics. Mix until well combined.
- 4
Stir in the flour and the egg until a cohesive mixture forms. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes.
- 5
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small patties (about 1/2 inch thick).
- 6
Heat the remaining 3 tbsp of olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
- 7
While the fritters are frying, prepare the tahini sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, and water until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- 8
Serve the sweet potato and tahini fritters hot, drizzled with the tahini sauce.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the fritter mixture.
- ✓If the mixture is too wet to form patties, add a little more flour.
- ✓These fritters can also be baked in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier option.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped cilantro or mint to the fritter mixture for extra freshness.
- Serve with a side of plain yogurt or a harissa-spiced yogurt dip.