Savory Lentil Patties

Delight your taste buds with these Savory Lentil Patties, a fantastic plant-based alternative to traditional meat patties. Packed with the wholesome goodness of lentils and veggies, and seasoned to perfection, these patties are not just nutritious but incredibly flavorful. Here’s how to whip them up:

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (285g) dried red lentils
  • 1 large shallot, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small carrot, grated
  • 15g (1/4 cup) chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil for cooking

Optional Ingredients for Binding (for a no-egg version, skip the eggs):

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1-2 eggs (if not using eggs, consider an alternative binder like flaxseed meal mixed with water)

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Lentils: Rinse the red lentils thoroughly and cook them according to package instructions until soft but not mushy. Once cooked, drain any excess water and let them cool slightly.
  2. Sauté Veggies: Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped shallot, minced garlic, and grated carrot until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool.
  3. Mash and Mix: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed veggies, chopped parsley, tomato puree, salt, and black pepper. Mash the mixture slightly with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture. If you’re using breadcrumbs and/or eggs for binding, add them now and mix well to combine.
  4. Form Patties: Shape the mixture into patties. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to help it hold together.
  5. Cook Patties: Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  6. Serve: Enjoy these savory lentil patties hot, with your favorite sides or as a burger patty with all the fixings. They’re delicious on their own or with a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce on top.

These lentil patties are a testament to the versatility and richness of plant-based ingredients, proving that a meatless option can be just as satisfying. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these patties are a must-try!