Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these red lentil patties! They’re not just healthy; they’re downright delicious and super versatile! I whip them up for snacks, quick lunches, or even as a fancy appetizer when friends come over. Trust me, once you taste that crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful center, you’ll be hooked! Packed with protein and fiber, they’re a guilt-free indulgence that makes you feel good after eating. Plus, you can serve them with all sorts of dips or sauces, and they’ll always shine. I love experimenting with spices and fresh herbs, and each time is like a mini adventure in my kitchen. So, let’s dive into making these delightful red lentil patties—you’re going to love them as much as I do!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup rinsed red lentils
- 2 cups water
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 grated carrot
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
How to Prepare Red Lentil Patties
Making red lentil patties is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll love the process! Just follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll have a plate of tasty golden-brown patties to enjoy.
Step 1: Rinse the Lentils
First things first, you’ll want to rinse the lentils under cold water. This step is crucial because it helps remove any impurities or dust that might have snuck in during packaging. Just place the lentils in a fine-mesh strainer, rinse them thoroughly, and let that water drain while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Lentils
Next, grab a pot and combine your rinsed lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re soft and mushy but still hold their shape. Drain any excess water, and let the lentils cool for a bit. This cooling step is important because it makes mixing everything easier later on!
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
While the lentils are cooling, it’s time to bring in some flavor! Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and add your finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. You want the onions to become translucent but not browned—this will give your patties that delicious flavor boost!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now we mix! In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, grated carrot, spices, fresh parsley, and breadcrumbs. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape. If it feels too wet, a bit more breadcrumbs can help! This is where you can really get your hands in there and feel the texture—it’s part of the fun!
Step 5: Form and Fry Patties
Alright, let’s shape those patties! Grab a handful of the mixture and form it into small, flat patties—about the size of your palm works great! Heat a good splash of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, making sure not to crowd them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to drain them on paper towels afterward to soak up any excess oil. And there you have it—perfectly crispy red lentil patties ready to be devoured!
Tips for Success
To make sure your red lentil patties turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, don’t skimp on seasoning—taste your mixture before forming the patties and adjust the salt and spices as needed. Fresh ingredients make all the difference, so grab the best herbs and veggies you can find! When frying, ensure your oil is hot enough; if it’s not sizzling when the patties hit the pan, they won’t get that lovely crispy texture. Also, try not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy patties. Finally, let them drain on paper towels after frying to keep that crunch. With these simple tricks, you’ll be a red lentil patty pro in no time!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these should be taken as a general guide rather than precise figures. Each red lentil patty contains approximately:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 6g
They’re packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy snack or meal! Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with something wholesome.
FAQ Section
Got questions about red lentil patties? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:
How do I store leftover patties?
You can store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them up. Reheat them in a skillet to regain that crispy texture!
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a lined baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray them with oil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What can I add for more flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add spices like paprika or chili powder for a kick, or even some diced bell peppers for extra crunch. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint are fantastic additions too!
Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re fully cooled, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll last for about 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Red lentil patties are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip these up in about 45 minutes—perfect for busy days!
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, a main dish, or even as a party appetizer. They pair well with a variety of dips and sauces.
- Customizable: Experiment with different spices and add-ins to make them your own—every batch can be a new flavor adventure!
- Vegan-Friendly: These patties are a great option for anyone following a plant-based diet without sacrificing taste!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your red lentil patties, the options are endless! I love serving them with a cool, creamy yogurt sauce or a zesty tahini dip—both add a delightful contrast to the patties’ warmth and texture. You can also pair them with a fresh salad for a light meal, or tuck them into pita bread with some crunchy veggies and a drizzle of your favorite sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them with a spicy salsa or even a dollop of hummus. Trust me, every bite will be bursting with flavor!
For more delicious recipes, check out this vegan red lentil curry or savory buckwheat cakes!
Print
Red Lentil Patties: 5 Irresistible Choices to Savor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A healthy and delicious option for a snack or meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 2 cups water
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water.
- In a pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer until lentils are soft.
- Drain any excess water and let lentils cool.
- In a pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- In a bowl, combine lentils, sautéed onion, grated carrot, spices, parsley, and breadcrumbs.
- Form mixture into patties.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry patties until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Notes
- Serve with yogurt or sauce of choice.
- Can be baked for a healthier option.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: red lentil patties, vegan patties, healthy snacks