4tablespoonsall-purpose flour(or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version)
3 to 4tablespoonsfine breadcrumbs or finely ground oats
For the coating:
4tablespoonsunsweetened plant-based milk
1teaspoonmustard
6tablespoonspanko breadcrumbs
2tablespoonsvegetable oil for cooking
Pinchof salt
For the smoky sauce:
2tablespoonstomato paste
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
1small garlic clove(grated)
1teaspoonground cumin
1 to 2pincheschili powder(or 1 small chopped fresh chili)
1teaspoonmaple syrup(or brown sugar)
1tablespoonlime juice
1tablespoonsoy sauce
2tablespoonsolive oil
3tablespoonswater
Salt(to taste)
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Instructions
Cook the sweet potato:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
Peel the sweet potato and cut it into 2 cm cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss with 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, a pinch of salt and pepper, and a little paprika or cumin.
Spread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway, until the edges are golden and tender inside. Let cool for 10 minutes before mashing.
Prepare the base:
Mash the roasted sweet potato and red beans in a large bowl.
Add the chopped shallot, spices, salt, pepper, flour, and breadcrumbs or ground oats.
Mix well until you get a firm and homogeneous dough.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes to help it set.
Shape the nuggets:
Scoop out small portions of dough and shape into oval or nugget-style bites. You should get 10 to 12 nuggets.
In one bowl, mix the plant milk and mustard.
In another bowl, place the panko with a pinch of salt.
Dip each nugget in the milk mixture, then coat in the panko.
Cook:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the nuggets for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels if needed.
Prepare the smoky sauce:
In a small saucepan or bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients.
Gently heat for 2 to 3 minutes or whisk cold until smooth and flavorful. Adjust salt, chili, or lime to taste.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the nuggets hot with the smoky sauce on the side for dipping, or lightly drizzled over. Pair with fries, rice, or a crunchy salad for a flavorful and satisfying meal.