For a delicious and wholesome meal, these red lentil patties paired with egg fried rice offer a perfect balance of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. This meal is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a nutrient-dense, satisfying dish that is easy to prepare. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this recipe delivers a flavorful punch while keeping your health goals in check.
Ingredients for Red Lentil Patties:
- 120g red lentils
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp Italian herbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 50g breadcrumbs
- Sesame seeds, for coating
- Olive oil spray, for cooking
Ingredients for Egg Fried Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably chilled overnight)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn), finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions for Red Lentil Patties:
- Cook the Lentils: Rinse the red lentils under cold water, then cook them in a saucepan with enough water to cover. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the ingredients are soft and cooked through. Drain and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, grated carrot, chopped red bell pepper, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the breadcrumbs and olive oil until well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it holds together.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of a palm. Coat each patty lightly with sesame seeds for added crunch.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and spray it with olive oil. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Set aside and keep warm while preparing the rice.
Instructions for Egg Fried Rice:
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and stir fry until softened, about 2 minutes. Add the mixed vegetables and continue stir frying for another 3-4 minutes until they are cooked through but still crisp.
- Cook the Eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Let the eggs set for a few seconds, then scramble them and mix them with the vegetables.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the chilled, cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Pour the soy sauce over the rice and stir everything together until the rice is heated through and coated evenly in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish with Green Onions: Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the rice and stir them in for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Conclusion:
This combination of Red Lentil Patties and Egg Fried Rice is a powerhouse of nutrition, blending plant-based protein from the lentils with a satisfying egg fried rice that’s loaded with vegetables. Perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, this recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also keeps you energized and healthy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different veggies or seasonings, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection!