As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a few lonely sweet potatoes nestled among the shelves, and a vibrant idea was born! At that moment, I knew I had to transform these humble potatoes into Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties. Crispy on the outside yet creamy on the inside, these delightful bites pack a punch of flavor with warm spices like cumin and coriander. Not only are they incredibly simple to whip up, making them a quick go-to when hunger strikes, but they also offer a healthy yet satisfying alternative to fast food. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a tasty side dish, they add a fun twist to any vegetarian meal. Curious about how to make this delicious dish your own? Let’s dive into the preparation!

Why are these patties irresistible?
Bold flavors: Each bite of these Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties bursts with the warm, inviting taste of cumin and coriander, creating a culinary adventure you won’t forget.
Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, anyone can whip up a batch in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment by substituting ingredients or transforming the shape into fritters or tater tots for a fun twist.
Nutritious choice: Packed with vitamins and fiber from sweet potatoes, this dish is not only delicious but also a wholesome alternative to fast food.
Serve with style: Pair them with zesty dips like cilantro lime aioli or curry ketchup,giving your meal a delightful touch that guests will rave about!
Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties Ingredients
For the Patties
- Sweet Potato – The creamy and sweet base for these patties; butternut squash can be used as a substitute for a similar texture.
- Minced Jalapeno – Adds a delightful kick of heat; if you prefer a milder flavor, swap with diced bell pepper.
- Chopped Cilantro – Freshness and flavor enhancer; parsley makes a suitable alternative for cilantro haters.
- Smoked Paprika – Infuses a smoky essence and vibrant color; regular paprika works too, though it lacks the smokiness.
- Ground Cumin – Essential for that warm, earthy flavor unique to Indian cuisine.
- Ground Coriander – Offers a citrusy tone that complements cumin perfectly; omit if you don’t have it on hand, but it may lose depth.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhance the overall flavor of the patties; adjust according to your taste.
- Curry Powder – Adds layers of complexity and spice; garam masala is a delightful substitute to consider.
- Ground Cinnamon – Brings a warm balance to the spices; feel free to skip this if you’re not a cinnamon fan.
- Egg – Acts as a binding agent to hold everything together; a flax egg can work for a vegan option (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
- Panko – Provides that delightful crunch; if you’re in a pinch, breadcrumbs can suffice, though panko is preferred.
- All-purpose Flour – Binds the mixture for better shaping; rice or corn flour are great gluten-free alternatives.
- Oil – Necessary for frying to achieve that golden crust; don’t skimp!
Optional Extras
- Serving Suggestions – Pair patties with zesty dips like curry ketchup or cilantro lime aioli for an extra layer of flavor!
- Variation Ideas – Shape into fritters or tater tots for a fun twist, or add grated zucchini or carrots to sneak in some extra veggies.
These Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties are full of flavor and great for a satisfying meal or snack!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties
Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potatoes
Begin by peeling and cutting sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil these chunks in a pot of salted water for about 15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Once cooked, drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes in a mixing bowl until smooth. Allow the sweet potato mash to cool down slightly before proceeding to ensure it binds well with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In the bowl with your cooled sweet potato mash, add minced jalapeno, chopped cilantro, smoked paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, curry powder, ground cinnamon, and the egg. Using a spatula or your hands, mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Next, fold in panko and all-purpose flour gradually, ensuring the mixture is cohesive and can hold shape when formed into patties.
Step 3: Form Patties
With your mixture ready, take approximately ¼ cup portions and shape them into round patties, flattening them slightly to create a surface for even cooking. Place the formed patties on a plate or a cutting board as you work. This assembly process for the Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties should yield about 10-12 patties, depending on the size.
Step 4: Cook Patties
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add your patties, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and crispy. Add more oil as needed to keep the patties well-coated and prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, remove the patties from the pan and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve these delicious Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties warm, accompanied by your favorite dips like cilantro lime aioli or a tangy curry ketchup for a delightful finishing touch.

Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delicious patties even more personal with your favorite ingredients!
- Fritter Style: Shape the mixture into small fritters for a fun twist, perfect as bite-sized snacks.
- Zesty Kick: Add extra minced jalapeno or a dash of cayenne pepper for an exhilarating heat that tingles the taste buds.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate grated zucchini or carrots into the mixture, enhancing both texture and nutrition while keeping them colorful and fun.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) for a vegan-friendly option that holds everything together.
- Herb Swap: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can step in to refresh the flavor while keeping it vibrant and green.
- Flavor Explosion: Experiment with different spices, like adding garam masala instead of curry powder for a flavorful twist reminiscent of Indian street food.
- Crunch Factor: Replace panko with crushed cornflakes for an unexpected yet delightful crunch in every bite.
- Sweet Potato Style: While sweet potatoes are amazing, consider using butternut squash for a slightly different flavor and texture that still works beautifully as a base.
Whether paired with curry ketchup or a zesty cilantro lime aioli, these variations will ensure every bite is just as exciting as the first. Don’t forget to check out our recipes for Savory Sweet Potato Hash Browns or Sweet Potato Fries for more inspiration!
How to Store and Freeze Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties
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Fridge: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures they retain their flavor and texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-cooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To regain their delightful crispiness, reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
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Defrosting: If frozen, thaw patties in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even cooking. Enjoy these Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties as a quick, delicious meal anytime!
What to Serve with Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties
Create a symphony of flavors by pairing these delightful patties with scrumptious sides and complements!
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Creamy Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish absorbs rich coconut flavors that beautifully balance the spices in the patties. It’s a tropical twist that leaves a lasting impression.
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Fresh Salad: A zesty cucumber and tomato salad adds a refreshing crunch and lightness against the crispy texture of the patties. Toss with lime juice and herbs for a punchy finish!
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Curried Lentil Soup: The warmth of this soup creates a heartwarming combo that echoes the spices in the patties. Each spoonful brings comfort alongside those delightful bites.
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Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed garlic spinach brings a vibrant, healthy touch and a burst of greenery that complements the earthy flavors of the patties. It’s all about that contrast!
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Herbed Yogurt Dip: A cool, tangy yogurt dip made with fresh herbs enhances the savory flavors and provides a necessary creamy element. It’s simply irresistible paired with the former!
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Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, this chutney provides a delightful contrast to the savory patties, enhancing every bite. The tropical notes turn up the flavor volume!
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Masala Chai: Wrap up your meal with a steaming cup of masala chai, the aromatic spices providing a warm, cozy finish that echoes the flavors found in the patties.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a rich chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth. The smoothness offsets the spiciness of the meal, creating a satisfying end to your culinary journey.
Make Ahead Options
These Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sweet potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance—just follow the first two steps of boiling and mashing the sweet potatoes, then mixing in the other ingredients. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply form the patties and fry them as directed. This not only preserves the flavor and texture but also ensures that you can enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort right at home!
Expert Tips for Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties
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Crispy Perfection: Frying rather than baking is key to achieving the desired crispy texture in your Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties.
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Oil Management: Keep an eye on the oil level while cooking; adding a bit more oil as needed ensures even frying and prevents sticking.
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Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste—more cumin or less heat based on preference can elevate your dish.
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Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have certain spices, consider using garam masala instead of curry powder for a unique flavor twist.
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Cooling Time: Allowing the sweet potato mash to cool slightly before mixing prevents the egg from cooking and helps everything bind better.

Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties Recipe FAQs
What type of sweet potatoes should I use for optimal flavor?
Absolutely! For the best creaminess and sweetness in your Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties, use orange-fleshed sweet potatoes. If they’re not available, butternut squash is an excellent alternative that offers a similar texture and sweetness.
How long can I store cooked patties in the fridge?
You can refrigerate the cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side to maintain their delicious crust!
Can I freeze Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze un-cooked patties! Arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer to firm up for about an hour. Then, transfer into a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What should I do if my patties are falling apart while cooking?
Don’t worry, it happens! If your patties are crumbling, you might need more binding agent. Try adding a bit more flour or another egg if you’re working with a batch that seems too loose. You can also chill the mixture for about 30 minutes before shaping, which often helps with binding.
Are these patties safe for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can easily make your Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties gluten-free by using rice flour or corn flour instead of all-purpose flour and ensuring your panko breadcrumbs are gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure safety for sensitive individuals.

Crispy Indian Spiced Sweet Potato Patties You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and cut sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water for about 15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and mash until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
- In the bowl with cooled sweet potato, add jalapeno, cilantro, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, curry powder, cinnamon, and egg. Mix thoroughly.
- Take 1/4 cup of the mixture and shape into round patties, flattening slightly. Place on a plate.
- Heat oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Fry patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Add more oil as needed.
- Remove patties and drain on paper towels. Serve warm with dips like cilantro lime aioli or curry ketchup.

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