Lentil Patties: Quick and Easy Recipe (Baked or Fried)

Are you looking for a healthy and satisfying vegetarian burger option? Look no further! You’ll love this mouthwatering lentil burger recipe that is not only packed with flavour but also offers an array of health benefits. Lentils, the star ingredient of these veggie burgers, are an excellent source of protein and fibre, making them a nutritious choice for any plant-based meal.

What are Lentil Patties

Lentil patties, also known as lentil burgers or lentil cakes, are savoury vegetarian or vegan patties made primarily from lentils. They are a popular alternative to meat-based burgers, offering a flavorful and nutritious option for those following a plant-based diet or looking to reduce their meat consumption.

Lentil patties typically consist of cooked lentils mixed with various ingredients such as vegetables, herbs, spices, and binding agents. The mixture is shaped into patties and then cooked by pan-frying, baking, grilling, or even air frying. The result is a hearty and satisfying patty that can be served on a bun, alongside a salad, or as part of a protein-rich main course. Perfect summer meatless Monday option.

Are Lentils Good for You?

Whether you’re enjoying a comforting lentil soup, a zesty lentil salad, or a hearty lentil curry, know that you’re not only nourishing your body but also supporting Canadian farmers who cultivate these nutritious legumes.

So, what makes lentils such a fantastic addition to your diet? Here are some of the key benefits:

Health Benefits of Lentils

1. Rich in Protein: Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them an ideal ingredient for vegans and vegetarians. A cup of cooked lentils contains around 18 grams of protein, promoting muscle growth and repair.
2. High in Fibre: Lentils are packed with dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Fibre also promotes a feeling of fullness, preventing overeating and supporting weight management.
3. Heart-Healthy: Lentils contain a good amount of soluble fibre, which helps lower cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease. Additionally, lentils are low in saturated fat and sodium, making them a heart-healthy food choice.
4. Blood Sugar Regulation: Lentils have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic foods. This property makes lentils suitable for individuals with diabetes or those seeking to stabilize their blood sugar levels.
5. Nutrient Powerhouse: Lentils are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients support overall health, energy production, and immune function.

For more resources and health benefits of lentils and other pulses, check out https://albertapulse.com/eating-pulses/ and to learn how lentils are grown, check out https://albertapulse.com/growing-lentils/.

Which Lentils Should I Use For This Recipe?

When it comes to making this lentil patties recipe, the choice of lentils can vary based on personal preference and the desired texture of the patties. However, two popular options that work well for lentil burgers are red lentils and green lentils.

• Red Lentils: Red lentils are a common choice for lentil burgers due to their mild flavor and soft texture. They cook relatively quickly and tend to break down easily, resulting in a smoother consistency for the burger mixture. Red lentils are also known for their vibrant color, which adds visual appeal to the patties.
• Green Lentils: Green lentils are slightly firmer and hold their shape better compared to red lentils. They have a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture, which some people prefer in their lentil burgers. Green lentils take a bit longer to cook, but they offer a heartier and more substantial bite.

Ultimately, the best lentil for your lentil burgers depends on your personal taste and the texture you prefer. You can even experiment by combining both red and green lentils to achieve a balanced texture and flavor profile.

Can I Use Canned Lentils?

Yes, you can absolutely use canned lentils instead of dry lentils for these veggie patties. Canned lentils are a convenient option that can save you time and effort in the cooking process.

Why This Lentil Patty Recipe Works

This lentil patty recipe works for several reasons, making it a reliable and satisfying option for a delicious plant-based meal. Here are a few key reasons why this recipe is a success:

1. Flavorful and Balanced: The recipe incorporates a variety of ingredients such as garlic, grated carrots, and tomato paste which add layers of flavour to the lentil patties. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika and cumin enhances the taste and ensures a well-balanced and savoury profile.
2. Perfect Texture: The choice of lentils and flour in the recipe helps achieve an ideal texture for the lentil patties. Red lentils or a combination of red and green lentils create a soft and tender patty, while flour and eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold the patties together without making them too dense.
3. Easy Preparation: The recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, allowing even beginners to achieve great results. With just a few basic steps, such as cooking the lentils, combining the ingredients in a mixing bowl, and shaping the mixture into patties, this recipe is accessible to anyone. These can even be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 4 days.
4. Versatile Cooking Methods: This recipe provides flexibility in cooking methods. It offers pan-frying, air fried lentil patties, or even cooking them on the grill. This allows you to choose your preferred method based on taste preferences and dietary considerations. Pan-frying creates a slightly crispy exterior, while air-frying provides a healthier, oil-free alternative.
5. Nutritious and Filling: Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein, fibre, and essential nutrients. These plant-based burgers harness the health benefits of lentils, offering a satisfying and protein-packed meal. The lentil patties are not only flavorful but also nourishing, making them a wholesome choice for individuals looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet.

Easy Lentil Burger Patties Ingredients

Here is your ingredient list for this recipe!

• 2 cups cooked lentils or 540 ml can of lentils
• 1 cup diced onion
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 100 g of chopped walnuts
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup of all purpose flour
• a few dashes of hot sauce, optional

Note

You can also use almond flour, chickpea flour, oat flour or your favourite gluten free alternative.

How to Make Homemade Lentil Patties

1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly and drain them.
2. In a large bowl, add the lentils and using the back of a wooden spoon, mash the lentils a little bit. This will help maintain their shape.
3. Next, add the minced garlic, diced onion, grated carrots, walnuts tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, 2 eggs, spices, salt, and pepper into the large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Add in the bread crumbs and flour and mix again until the flour is completely incorporated into the patty mixture.
5. Form patties with your hands. This recipe makes 6.
6. Heat a little oil in a frying pan or medium skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Cook patties for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

Cooking the Lentil Patties on the Grill

Preheat the grill to about 350F. Cook covered on each side for 5-6 minutes or until brown and crispy.

Cooking the Lentil Patties in the Air Fryer

For a healthier cooking option, preheat an air fryer to 375°F. Place the lentil patties on a piece of parchment paper and air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they achieve a golden brown colour.

How do You Serve Lentil Patties

These versatile lentil patties can be served in various ways, allowing for a range of delicious and satisfying meal options. Here are some of my favourite serving suggestions for these lentil patties:

• Plant-Based Burgers: Place cooked lentil patties on burger buns or a lettuce wrap. Top it with your favourite burger fixings like sliced tomatoes, onions, lettuce, pickles, avocado, and condiments such as ketchup, mustard, or vegan mayo. Serve with a side of potato wedges or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
• Salad Topping: Crumble or slice the cooked lentil patties and use them as a protein-rich topping for a fresh salad. They add texture, flavour, and substance to your favourite leafy greens, just like lentil falafels.
• Grain Bowl: Include lentil patties as a centrepiece in a nourishing grain bowl. Combine cooked lentil patties with a grain like quinoa, brown rice, or bulgur, along with roasted or steamed vegetables, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of creamy lime dressing. This creates well-rounded recipes and a satisfying meal that is packed with nutrients.
• Wrap or Pita Pocket: Wrap a cooked lentil patty in a whole-grain tortilla, pita bread or stuff it into a pita pocket. Add some crunchy vegetables, a dollop of this Lemon Pepper or Spicy Harissa hummus or tzatziki sauce, and perhaps some crumbled goat cheese for an easy and portable meal.
• Appetizer or Snack: Serve smaller-sized lentil patties as an appetizer or snack. Make mini patties and serve them as lentil fitters alongside a flavorful dipping sauce like a yogurt tahini sauce, Tomato Basil Bruschetta, or a yogurt-based dip. They make a great addition to party platters or can be enjoyed as a light snack on their own.

Remember to garnish and customize your lentil patties according to your taste preferences. Fresh herbs, sliced avocado, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add an extra burst of flavor.

What to Serve with Lentil Patties

Lentil patties pair well with a variety of side dishes, enhancing the overall meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider when deciding what to serve with lentil patties:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roast a colourful assortment of seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. The caramelized flavours and tender texture of the roasted vegetables complement the lentil patties perfectly.
• Salad: A Mediterranean-inspired salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and a lemon-herb dressing can be a refreshing choice. Check out this Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad from the Mediterranean Dish.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Bake some sweet potato fries as a tasty and nutritious side dish. Try this recipe from Cookie and Kate.
• Coleslaw: Prepare a crunchy and refreshing coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. The cool and tangy flavors of the coleslaw provide a great contrast to the warm lentil patties. Try this Creamy Coleslaw recipe from The Darling Gourmet.
• Dips and Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces or condiments to accompany the lentil patties. This Green Onion dip is my favourite flavorful addition to elevate the taste of the lentil patties and add an extra layer of enjoyment.
• Pickles and Relishes: Pickles, relishes, or chutneys can provide a delightful tangy element to balance the richness of the lentil patties.

Remember to consider the overall balance of flavors, textures, and nutritional elements when choosing your sides. Aim to incorporate a mix of vegetables, whole grains, and condiments to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that complements the lentil patties.

How to Store Lentil Patties

Whether you are storing leftovers or preparing these patties in advance, follow these steps:

1. Cool the Patties: Allow the cooked lentil patties to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent moisture buildup and ensures they retain their texture.
2. Wrap Individually: Wrap each lentil patty individually in plastic wrap or place them in separate airtight containers. This prevents them from sticking together and makes it easier to grab and reheat individual portions.
3. Refrigeration: Place the wrapped or containerized lentil patties in the refrigerator. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
4. Freezing: If you want to store the lentil patties for a longer period, freezing is an option. Place the cooled lentil patties in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for a few hours until they are firm. Once firm, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe or air-tight container or freezer bag, separating each patty with parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent sticking. The lentil patties can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.:

Thawing and Reheating

When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen lentil patties in the refrigerator overnight.

Alternatively, you can reheat them directly from frozen. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the thawed or frozen patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat lentil patties in a lightly oiled large skillet over medium heat, cooking for a few minutes on each side until heated.

Remember, the reheating time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the lentil patties, as well as personal preference for desired warmth. It’s important to ensure the patties are heated thoroughly before consuming.

By following these storage tips, you can keep your red lentil patties fresh and ready to enjoy whenever you desire.

Final Thoughts

So, next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and nutritious burger, try these lentil patties. Not only are they easy to make and gluten-free, but they also offer numerous health benefits. Whether you choose to fry them in a pan or opt for a healthier air-frying method, these lentil burgers will surely satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.