Spiced Green Lentil Burgers
These Spiced Green Lentil Burgers are a delicious and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional burgers, offering a firm texture and rich, savory flavor. Packed with protein and fiber, they're perfect for a healthy and hearty meal.
For 4 servings
Rinse the green lentils thoroughly. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils with 3 cups of vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are very tender but not mushy. Drain exceptionally well, pressing out any excess liquid, and set aside to cool slightly.
While lentils cook, prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp ground flaxseed and 3 tbsp water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to a gel-like consistency.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat.
In a food processor, combine the cooked and drained lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, flax egg, panko breadcrumbs, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If using, add the fresh parsley.
Pulse the mixture a few times until it comes together but still has some texture; avoid over-processing into a smooth paste. You want some whole lentil pieces for a better mouthfeel. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form them into patties, about 3/4-inch thick. Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to help them firm up.
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the chilled patties in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
Serve immediately on your favorite buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and your choice of sauces. These burgers also pair well with a side salad or sweet potato fries.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Drain Lentils Thoroughly:** Excess moisture is the enemy of a firm veggie burger. After cooking, drain the lentils very well and even press them gently to remove as much water as possible.
- 2**Don't Over-Process:** For the best texture, pulse the mixture in the food processor until just combined, leaving some whole lentil pieces. Over-processing can lead to a gummy burger.
- 3**Chill for Firmness:** Chilling the formed patties for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This allows the binders to set and helps prevent the burgers from falling apart during cooking.
- 4**Batch Cook & Freeze:** These patties freeze beautifully! Cook them fully, let them cool, then wrap individually and freeze. Reheat in a skillet or oven for a quick meal.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spice Profile
Experiment with different spice blends. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, a dash of curry powder for an Indian twist, or dried oregano and basil for a Mediterranean flair.
Binding & TextureBinding & Texture
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats (pulsed into a flour) instead of panko. For extra umami, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari to the mixture.
Cooking MethodCooking Method
Instead of pan-frying, you can bake these burgers. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), lightly brush patties with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function, making these burgers a satisfying and nutritious meal.
High in Dietary Fiber
Green lentils are packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to a healthy gut microbiome.
Good Source of Iron and Folate
Lentils provide significant amounts of iron, crucial for oxygen transport in the blood, and folate (Vitamin B9), important for cell growth and function, particularly beneficial for plant-based diets.
Frequently asked questions
The key is to drain the cooked lentils very well, use the flax egg as a binder, and most importantly, chill the formed patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the ingredients to firm up and bind together.
