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Introduction:
Lentil burgers have quickly gained popularity among those looking for a healthier, plant-based alternative to traditional meat burgers. They’re not only delicious and filling but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to cut back on meat, these savory lentil patties offer a satisfying, guilt-free meal. They are easy to make, customizable, and can be served in a variety of ways, from classic burger buns to lettuce wraps. Let’s dive into how to prepare this hearty and nutritious dish!
Ingredients:
1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
3 cups water or vegetable broth
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup cooked quinoa or oats (optional, for extra texture)
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free version)
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (acts as a binder)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing and frying
Instructions:
Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water, then place them in a pot with the water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set the lentils aside to cool.
Sauté Vegetables: In a pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, breadcrumbs, cooked quinoa or oats (if using), soy sauce, flaxseed, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mash the lentils slightly with a fork or potato masher until they are partially broken down, creating a thick, textured mixture.
Form Patties: Once the mixture is well combined, divide it into 4-6 portions and shape them into patties, pressing them firmly to hold their shape.
Cook the Burgers: Heat a little olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. You can also bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Assemble the Burger: Serve the lentil patties on burger buns or lettuce wraps with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, pickles, or a drizzle of vegan mayo or ketchup.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: Lentil burgers pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. For a gluten-free version, use lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns as the base.
Storing: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pan-fry or microwave until warm. You can also freeze the patties for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing, and thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Variants:
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