Description
These hearty lentil patties are a delicious, plant-based alternative to traditional meat burgers. Packed with protein and fiber from lentils and vegetables, they are seasoned with cumin and smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Perfectly pan-fried to a golden crisp, these patties are ideal for serving in buns, over greens, or with your favorite sauce, making them a nutritious and satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup dried brown or green lentils (or 2 ½ cups cooked)
- 2 ½ cups water or vegetable broth
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium carrot (grated)
Binders & Seasonings
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or oat flour
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water (flax egg)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan frying)
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly and place them in a saucepan with 2 ½ cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still retain some texture. Drain any excess liquid and allow lentils to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Pattie Mixture: Transfer the cooked lentils to a food processor and pulse a few times to partially mash them, leaving some texture intact. Transfer the mashed lentils to a large mixing bowl. Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs or oat flour, flax egg (ground flaxseed mixed with water), tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Rest the Mixture: Allow the mixture to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the ingredients bind together and firms up the mixture, making it easier to shape into patties.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together during cooking.
- Pan Fry the Patties: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp on the outside. Remove from heat and serve warm.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the lentil patties on a bun as a burger, over a bed of greens, or accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce for a wholesome, meatless meal.
Notes
- These patties freeze well—cook them fully, cool completely, and freeze in a single layer. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.
- For extra nutrients and flavor, consider adding chopped spinach or your favorite fresh herbs to the mixture before shaping.
- Using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour makes this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
