Ingredients
Sweet Potato Tots
- 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato (about one 8-oz medium-sized sweet potato)
- 1/2 cup red split lentils (uncooked)
- 1 cup no salt-added vegetable broth (can also use chicken broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs (can also substitute with gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour)
- 1-2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Sweet Potato: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potato with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes until soft. Alternatively, microwave for 6-10 minutes until soft to the touch. Allow the sweet potato to cool slightly, then peel and mash it in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Cook the Lentils: While the sweet potato cooks, rinse the red split lentils, add to a saucepan, cover with the broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until most liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off heat, keep covered, and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked lentils to the mashed sweet potato bowl. Mix in paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, panko bread crumbs, and salt if using. Combine thoroughly using hands or a spoon to create a cohesive mixture.
- Shape the Tots: Form the mixture into approximately 18 small croquettes, each about 2 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly brush or spray the tops with olive oil.
- Bake to Crisp: Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping. The tots should be lightly golden and crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.
Notes
- You can substitute panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a quicker sweet potato cooking method, microwave instead of baking.
- Adjust salt to taste or omit for a lower sodium option, especially for babies.
- Ensure lentils are fully cooked and softened for easy blending with sweet potato.
- Serve warm as a snack or side dish suitable for toddlers and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free