Embark on a culinary adventure with these savory lentil patties, where the humble lentil is transformed into a deliciously meaty alternative. Infused with the unexpected twist of banana and a medley of spices, these patties are a testament to the versatility and richness of plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of flat green or brown lentils
- 1 small banana, mashed
- 3 tablespoons of bread flour
- 1.5 cups of breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, grated and juice strained
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- A blend of black pepper, cumin, paprika, thyme, and salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Liquid oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly and boil them in a pot of water until tender, about 20-25 minutes. Drain any excess water and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils with the back of a fork or a potato masher until they’re partly mashed with some texture remaining. Stir in the mashed banana, grated and strained onion, minced garlic, bread flour, and about half of the breadcrumbs. Season with black pepper, cumin, paprika, thyme, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Shape the Patties: Form the mixture into patties, using your hands. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it together. Coat each patty lightly in the remaining breadcrumbs.
- Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil and a little liquid oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serving: Serve the lentil and banana patties hot. They’re delicious on their own or can be served with a side of fresh salad, your favorite sauce, or tucked into a bun for a hearty and nutritious burger alternative.
These savory lentil and banana patties are not only a delightful surprise to the palate but also a nourishing, protein-packed meal option. The addition of a simple banana adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the earthy flavors of the lentils and spices, creating a dish that might just make you forget all about meat.