I love experimenting with ingredients that are wholesome, vibrant, and full of flavor. One of my favorite discoveries has been combining sweet potatoes and chickpeas into crispy, golden patties that satisfy both my craving for comfort food and my desire for something nutritious. Using the air fryer for this recipe has been a game-changer—it gives the patties a perfect crisp without the extra oil, making it lighter yet still indulgent.
Every time I make these patties, I feel like I’m creating something that’s as versatile as it is delicious. They work wonderfully as a main dish, a sandwich filling, or even a snack on their own. I especially love how the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes balances beautifully with the earthy, hearty chickpeas. With a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, I can whip up a batch that tastes like I spent hours in the kitchen.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the patties, bringing natural sweetness, moisture, and a creamy texture. They also provide a rich source of vitamins A and C, making the patties both tasty and nutritious.
Chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber, chickpeas help bind the patties and add a subtle nutty flavor. They also give a satisfying, hearty bite that balances the softness of the sweet potatoes.
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds aromatic depth and a hint of savory flavor that elevates the patties. It works perfectly with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
Garlic: Just a few cloves of garlic bring a punch of flavor, infusing each patty with a deliciously fragrant note that makes them irresistible.
Breadcrumbs: These help the patties hold their shape and create a lightly crispy exterior when air fried. They also absorb some moisture from the mixture without making it dry.
Egg: Acting as a natural binder, the egg ensures that the patties stay together during cooking, keeping them from falling apart in the air fryer.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Salt, Pepper): These seasonings add warmth, depth, and a touch of smokiness to the patties, making every bite flavorful and exciting.
Olive Oil Spray: Lightly spraying the patties helps them achieve a golden-brown crust while keeping them moist inside without the need for deep frying.
Ingredients List
- 1 medium sweet potato (about 1 cup mashed)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray, for air frying
How to Make Air Fryer Sweet Potato and Chickpea Patties
Prepare the Sweet Potato
Peel and dice the sweet potato, then steam or boil until tender. Mash it until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
Mash the Chickpeas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth, leaving a few chunks for texture.
Mix the Ingredients
Add the mashed sweet potato, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix until well combined.
Form the Patties
Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into small, round patties. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Air Fry the Patties
Lightly spray the patties with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the patties from the air fryer and serve warm. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad, yogurt sauce, or in a sandwich.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Make sure the sweet potato is fully cooked and cooled slightly before mixing; this prevents soggy patties.
- Don’t over-mash the chickpeas; leaving some texture keeps the patties interesting.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy exterior.
- Adjust spices to taste—adding a pinch of chili flakes can give a pleasant kick.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to help it bind better.
- Preheating the air fryer ensures the patties cook evenly and get a perfect golden crust.
FAQs
Can I make these patties vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) to keep the patties binding well.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, you can freeze them uncooked or cooked. If frozen uncooked, air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with these patties?
They pair well with salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, or a yogurt-based dipping sauce.
How long do they stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.