Lentil Patties
Hearty and flavorful lentil patties, pan-fried to a perfect golden brown. Packed with protein and fiber, they make a satisfying vegetarian main course, perfect for burgers or alongside a fresh salad.
For 4 servings
Cook the lentils
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and 3 cups of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the water.
- Drain any excess water and let the lentils cool slightly.
Sauté the vegetables
- While the lentils cook, heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Combine the patty mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
- Mash the mixture with a potato masher or the back of a fork until about half the lentils are broken down. This helps the patties hold together.
- Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Form and chill the patties
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2-inch thick.
- Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- If time permits, chill the patties in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to help them firm up.
Pan-fry the patties
- Heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the patties in the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve
- Serve the lentil patties warm on a bun as a burger, or alongside your favorite sides.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a firmer patty, make sure to drain the lentils very well after cooking.
- 2Don't skip the chilling step if you have time; it really helps the patties hold their shape during cooking.
- 3Feel free to add other finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the mix.
- 4These patties are great for meal prep. Cooked patties can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- 5To freeze, place cooked and cooled patties between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the egg with a 'flax egg' by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
gluten freeGluten free
Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with an equal amount of almond flour or rolled oats.
high proteinHigh protein
Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds to the mixture for extra protein and a nice texture.
quickQuick
Use two 15-ounce cans of cooked lentils, rinsed and drained, to skip the lentil cooking step and save about 20 minutes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Lentils are a fantastic source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
High in Dietary Fiber
The fiber from lentils and vegetables supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Excellent Source of Iron
Lentils provide a significant amount of iron, a mineral crucial for preventing anemia and transporting oxygen in the blood.
Heart-Healthy
Low in saturated fat and high in fiber and folate, these patties can contribute to better heart health by helping to manage cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, lentil patties are very healthy. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate. Pan-frying with minimal oil keeps them lower in fat compared to deep-fried versions.
