Shrimp Cakes

1. Stage

Make the spice mix: Add cumin seeds, peppercorns, and coriander to a heavy medium skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until fragrant and lightly toasted, about 8 minutes. Let cool a few minutes. Grind spices in a blender or spice grinder (can use a coffee grinder that has been cleaned by grinding raw rice) until finely ground. Transfer to a small bowl, stir in sugar and salt. This makes about half a cup. You'll only need 1 1/2 teaspoons of the spice mix for one shrimp cakes recipe, so store the remainder for future use.

2. Stage

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

3. Stage

Microwave the sweet potatoes and the garlic: Pierce sweet potatoes all over with a fork. Bake in microwave for about 15 minutes until done. Rub one tablespoon of oil over the unpeeled garlic cloves. Cook in microwave a few minutes, until soft. Let the garlic and sweet potatoes cool enough to handle. Peel the garlic. Cut the sweet potato in half and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh. Combine the cooked sweet potato and garlic in a bowl and mash until smooth.

4. Stage

Make the shrimp mixture: Add the shrimp, cilantro, breadcrumbs, jalapeño, onion, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of the spice mix to the bowl with the sweet potatoes. Mix until well blended. Season with salt.

5. Stage

Shape the patties: Use your hands to form the mixture into six patties, 3-inches in diameter.

6. Stage

Brown the patties: Lightly dust the shrimp cakes in flour. Heat the remaining 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, cook the shrimp cakes until nicely browned, adding more oil as needed, about 2 minutes per side.

7. Stage

Finish the shrimp cakes in the oven: Place the shrimp cakes on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F until heated through, about 5 minutes.

8. Stage

Serve: These taste great served with lemon, tartar sauce , and coleslaw .