Description
These Lentil Patties are a delicious and healthy vegetarian alternative to meat patties, packed with protein and flavor. Made from lentils, fresh vegetables, and spices, these patties are perfect for a main course served warm in buns, with salad, or a dipping sauce. They are easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be made vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg.
Ingredients
Scale
Lentil Base
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils (rinsed)
- 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
Vegetables and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Binders and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook Lentils: In a saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils with water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare Patty Mixture: Transfer the cooked lentils to a large bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture for the patties. Add breadcrumbs, grated carrot, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, soy sauce, tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and the egg (or flax egg). Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 even-sized patties, pressing gently to ensure they hold their shape.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden brown crust and are heated through.
- Serve: Serve the lentil patties warm. They pair wonderfully with fresh salad, inside burger buns, or alongside your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
- To make the patties vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg: mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water and let it rest until gelatinous.
- These patties freeze well; cook them fully, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container.
- Alternatively, you can bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through for an easy oven method.
