Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that your little ones will absolutely love? Look no further! These Sweet Potato Kale and Black Bean Patties are not only packed with flavor, but they’re also a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy greens. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these vegan patties make for a delightful finger food that babies and toddlers can enjoy. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients and a quick prep time, you'll be serving up smiles in no time! Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a meal that’s both tasty and nourishing for your little eaters!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 10 patties
Ingredients
- 1 cup sweet potato, cooked and mashed
- 1 cup kale, finely chopped
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Start by preparing the sweet potato. If using fresh sweet potatoes, peel them, chop them into cubes, and boil them in a pot of water for about 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes in a bowl. If using pre-cooked or canned sweet potatoes, simply mash them until smooth.
- While the sweet potatoes are cooking, wash the kale thoroughly. Remove the tough stems and finely chop the leaves. You can also steam the kale for about 3-5 minutes to soften it slightly, making it easier for babies and toddlers to chew.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potato, chopped kale, and drained black beans. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the black beans slightly, leaving some chunks for texture. This will help bind the mixture together.
- Add the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but hold together when formed into patties. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs as needed.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. You can lightly grease the pan with a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Once the pan is hot, take a small amount of the mixture and form it into a patty shape, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place the patty in the skillet and repeat with the remaining mixture, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat to prevent burning. If the patties are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
- Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to your baby or toddler.
- These Sweet Potato Kale and Black Bean Patties can be served warm or at room temperature. They can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
Tips
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or zucchini to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to finely chop or grate them for easy chewing.
- Adjust the Texture: If your child prefers a smoother texture, mash the black beans more thoroughly. For older toddlers, leaving some chunks can add a fun texture.
- Cooking Method: For a healthier option, consider baking the patties in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even cook.
- Make Ahead: These patties are perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and freeze them. Just reheat in the oven or on the skillet when you're ready to serve.
- Serve with Dips: Pair these patties with a tasty dip like avocado or hummus for an extra flavor boost that toddlers will love!
- Watch the Heat: When cooking, keep an eye on the heat. If the patties are browning too quickly, lower the heat to ensure they cook through without burning.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Just reheat to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 4g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
