Lentil patties are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. They are packed with protein and flavor, making them perfect as a main dish, snack, or appetizer. Whether you’re looking for a way to sneak more plant-based foods into your diet or need a quick meal prep idea, these patties will satisfy your taste buds without weighing you down. The combination of lentils, fresh veggies, and spices creates a delightful texture and taste that everyone will love!
What You’ll Need for Lentil Patties
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather everything you need to make these tasty lentil patties.
- 1.5 cups (300g) dried red lentils
- 1 large shallot, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 0.25 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- Olive oil for frying
How to Make Lentil Patties
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making these delightful lentil patties!
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Place the dried red lentils in a large bowl and cover them with water. Allow them to soak for about 2 hours.
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After soaking, strain the lentils well using a fine mesh strainer and transfer them to a food processor or blender.
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Add the chopped shallots, minced garlic, grated carrots, and freshly chopped parsley to the lentils in the food processor.
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Include the tomato puree, salt, and black pepper.
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Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and fully combined.
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Heat olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium to medium-high heat.
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Scoop some of the lentil mixture and shape it into a patty using your hands.
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Gently place the patty in the hot oil.
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Repeat the process, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
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Fry the patties until both sides are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
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Transfer the cooked lentil patties to a tray lined with parchment paper or paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
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Serve the patties on a serving plate or dish with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.
How to Serve Lentil Patties
These lentil patties are best enjoyed warm and fresh. You can serve them plain or with a delicious dipping sauce, such as tzatziki, hummus, or even a spicy aioli.
For a more indulgent meal, pair them with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. If you want to make them into a complete dish, consider serving them in a pita along with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce. Not only do they taste great, but they also look colorful and inviting on the plate!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spice it Up: Try adding spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder to the mixture for an extra flavor kick.
- Add Cheese: Incorporate some crumbled feta or shredded cheese into the mixture for a cheesy twist.
- Make Mini Patties: For smaller snacks, shape the lentil mixture into mini patties; they make great party appetizers!
Lentil Patties FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes! While this recipe uses red lentils, you can certainly experiment with green or brown lentils. Just remember that cooking times may vary.
How do I store leftover patties?
Store leftover lentil patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in a nonstick pan or in the oven.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely! You can freeze the patties before cooking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.
Lentil patties are not only nutritious but also very versatile. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy these yummy little bites of goodness! You’re sure to impress your family and friends with this simple yet flavorful dish. Happy cooking!
Lentil Patties
Ingredients
Method
- Place the dried red lentils in a large bowl and cover them with water. Allow them to soak for about 2 hours.
- After soaking, strain the lentils well using a fine mesh strainer and transfer them to a food processor or blender.
- Add the chopped shallots, minced garlic, grated carrots, and freshly chopped parsley to the lentils in the food processor.
- Include the tomato puree, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend all the ingredients together until smooth and fully combined.
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick pan over medium to medium-high heat.
- Scoop some of the lentil mixture and shape it into a patty using your hands.
- Gently place the patty in the hot oil.
- Repeat the process, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the patties until both sides are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked lentil patties to a tray lined with parchment paper or paper towels to drain off any excess oil.
- Serve the patties on a serving plate or dish with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.