Tiny Tummy Sweet Potato & Black Bean Bites

Vegetarian · 8m+ · en

These soft, nutrient-packed sweet potato patties are a fantastic finger food for babies and toddlers. Combining hearty black beans and iron-rich kale, they are easy for little hands to hold and gentle on tiny tummies.

Serve these alongside a little plain Greek yogurt or mild goat cheese for dipping.
Make a double batch and freeze the extras between layers of parchment paper for quick future meals.
If serving to younger babies (6-8 months), cut the patties into wide strips that are easy to grasp.

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 15 min
Servings: 8
Age: 8m+

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Ingredients

Mashed sweet potato — 250 g / 1 cup · Cooked and peeled
Cooked black beans — 100 g / ½ cup · Rinsed and lightly squished
Finely chopped kale — 30 g / 1 cup · Steamed or sautéed until very soft
Egg — 1 medium · Lightly beaten (or use 1 flax egg)
Breadcrumbs — 40 g / ⅓ cup · Panko or standard, unseasoned
Mild paprika — 1 tsp · Optional, for a gentle flavor boost
Olive oil — 1 tbsp · For pan-frying

Watch how it's made

Steps

Place the mashed sweet potato, squished black beans, and cooked kale into a large mixing bowl.
Add the beaten egg, breadcrumbs, and mild paprika to the bowl. Stir everything together until the mixture is fully combined and holds its shape.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8 small, toddler-sized patties (about 1.5 cm thick).
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden-brown and firm. Let them cool completely before serving.

Frequently asked questions

Can I freeze these sweet potato patties?

Yes! These freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer before transferring to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

How can I make this recipe egg-free?

You can easily swap the egg for a 'flax egg' by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before adding it to the bowl.

Are black beans safe for babies?

Yes, black beans are highly nutritious for babies. Just make sure they are cooked until very soft and flattened or squished to remove the risk of choking.

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What you'll need

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