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Sweet Potato Cakes Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 120 reviews

Deliciously crispy and tender sweet potato cakes made with mashed sweet potatoes, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic, pan-fried to golden perfection. These versatile cakes make a wonderful appetizer, side dish, or vegetarian main that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Sweet Potato Cakes

  • 24 ounces sweet potatoes (washed, peeled, and cut into 3/4-inch cubes)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 1/4 cup green onions (chopped)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 large garlic cloves (minced)
  • Vegetable oil (as needed for frying)

Instructions

  1. Boil potatoes: Place the sweet potato cubes in a pot, cover them with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 12-15 minutes.
  2. Mash potatoes: Drain the cooked sweet potatoes thoroughly and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash them until smooth using a potato masher or fork. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Form patties: Add the chopped green onions, egg, panko bread crumbs, chopped fresh parsley, plain Greek yogurt, and minced garlic to the mashed potatoes. Mix everything together until well combined. Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
  4. Fry cakes: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Cook each side for about 6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute plain Greek yogurt with sour cream or mayonnaise if preferred.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped chives to the mixture.
  • To keep the cakes warm while frying in batches, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (90°C).
  • These cakes can be served with a dipping sauce such as sour cream, tzatziki, or a spicy aioli.
  • Ensure the sweet potatoes are mashed smoothly to help the patties hold their shape during frying.

Keywords: sweet potato cakes, pan-fried sweet potato patties, vegetarian appetizer, crispy sweet potato cakes, easy side dish