Description
These Lentil Patties are a delicious and healthy meatless alternative perfect for burgers or a main dish. Made with brown or green lentils and flavorful spices, they are packed with protein and fiber, offering a satisfying texture and taste. They can be pan-fried for a crispy exterior or baked for a lighter version, making them versatile and easy to prepare for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dry brown or green lentils (rinsed)
- 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan: 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)
Instructions
- Cook Lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed lentils with water or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Drain any excess liquid if necessary and allow the lentils to cool slightly.
- Prepare Mixture: Transfer the cooked lentils to a large bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still retaining some texture. Then add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, chopped fresh parsley, breadcrumbs or oat flour, soy sauce or tamari, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine well.
- Add Binding Agent: Incorporate the egg or prepared flax egg into the mixture and stir until it holds together well. Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to firm up, which helps the patties maintain their shape during cooking.
- Form Patties: Shape the lentil mixture into 6 to 8 patties of even size, depending on your preferred portion size.
- Cook Patties: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until they become golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Serve the lentil patties warm, either with your favorite sauce as a main dish or in a bun as a satisfying veggie burger.
Notes
- For a lower-oil version, bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- These patties freeze well after cooking. To reheat, warm them up in the oven or a skillet.
- Use oat flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flax egg made from ground flaxseed and water.
