Lentil Patties Recipe

This Lentil Patties Recipe are made with red lentils, garlic, red onion, carrots, panko crumbs, tomato paste and baked or pan fried.

This vegan recipe is kid approved and family friendly. This recipe is totally foolproof I promise you will be able to make it! There are many variations to this so feel free to modify the recipe as you would like.

If you love these vegan lentil burgers, you should try these Vegan Wraps and my Vegan Mac and Cheese.

Jump to:

• What are lentil patties?
• Are lentils good for you
• Ingredients
• How to make Lentil Patties Recipe
• Can I Cook These In An Air Fryer?
• How to make lentil burgers stick together
• What to serve lentil patties with
• Substitutions
• Lentil Patties Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Lentil Patties
• Lentil Patties Recipe Top tips
• Carrot Lentil Patty (Vegan)
• Food safety

What are lentil patties?

Lentil patties are a type of vegetarian patty made from cooked lentils and other ingredients. They are a great alternative to meat-based patties and are a good source of protein and fiber.

To make lentil patties, cooked lentils are mixed with ingredients such as bread crumbs, onions, garlic, herbs, and spices. The mixture is formed into patties and then pan-fried, baked or grilled until they are crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside.

Lentil patties can be served as a vegetarian burger, sandwich, or as a side dish. They are versatile and can be seasoned to suit a variety of tastes. They are also a great option for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet as they provide a good source of protein and nutrients.

Are lentils good for you

Lentil are great for you. These are some of the reasons why I love them.

• High in Nutrients: Lentils are a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are especially high in folate, iron, and magnesium, which are important for maintaining healthy blood, brain, and bone function.
• Low in Fat: Lentils are naturally low in fat, making them a great option for people trying to maintain a healthy weight or manage their cholesterol levels.
• Good for Digestion: Lentils are a good source of fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion and can reduce the risk of constipation and other digestive problems.
• Versatile: Lentils are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and patties, making them a great addition to any diet.
• Affordable: Lentils are also affordable and readily available, making them a great option for people on a budget.

Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Dried red lentils
• Garlic
• Red onion
• Carrots
• Parsley
• Tomato paste
• Panko crumbs

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make Lentil Patties Recipe

Hint: Watch the patties closely in the oven.

Can I Cook These In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook lentil patties in an air fryer. Here's how:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
3. Place the lentil patties in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each patty.
4. Cook the patties in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, flipping them over halfway through the cooking time.
5. Once the patties are cooked through and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to make lentil burgers stick together

• Use the right amount of moisture: Too much moisture can make the lentil mixture too wet and difficult to shape into patties, while too little moisture can make it crumbly. The trick is to find the right balance. Start with the recommended amount of liquid and adjust as needed to get a moist but not overly wet consistency.
• Add a binding agent: Binding agents, such as flaxseed meal, breadcrumbs, or oats, can help hold the lentil mixture together. Add a tablespoon or two of these ingredients to the lentil mixture before forming into patties.
• Refrigerate the mixture: Chilling the lentil mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before shaping into patties can help it hold together better. This will also make the lentil burgers firmer and easier to handle.
• Cook the lentil burgers on high heat: Cooking the lentil burgers on high heat will help them develop a crispy exterior and hold together better. Use a non-stick pan and cook the patties for a few minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
• Don't flip the patties too soon: Resist the temptation to flip the lentil patties too soon, as this can cause them to fall apart. Wait until the patties are browned and crispy on the first side before flipping them over.

What to serve lentil patties with

Lentil patties are very versatile and can be served with a variety of sides and toppings.

• Salad: Serve the lentil patties with a fresh salad on the side. A simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing or a colorful Mediterranean salad would be great choices.
• Toppings: Top the lentil patties with sliced avocado, tomato, lettuce, or onion. A dollop of yogurt or tzatziki sauce would also add a nice tangy flavor.
• Grains: Serve the lentil patties with a side of cooked quinoa, rice, or couscous. These grains complement the lentil patties and provide additional nutrients and fiber.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roast some vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or eggplant, and serve them alongside the lentil patties.
• Spinach Soup: You can serve these patties along my delicious Spinach Soup.
• Bread: Place the lentil patties between two slices of toasted bread or in a pita pocket with some hummus, tahini, or other spread.

Substitutions

• Parsley: You can use parsley, cilantro, basil, or any herb of your choosing. This gives the patty a nice kick.
• Carrots: You can use equal parts celery, turnips, or squash instead. Make sure to dice them up nice and small.
• Onion: You can use yellow or white onion, I opted for red onion. Either one of them works. You could also use a small shallot if you prefer.
• Tomato paste: The tomato paste helps form the mixture.
• Panko Crumbs: I would use panko crumbs although Italian bread crumbs could work too. I like the texture that the panko crumbs give this dish.

Lentil Patties Recipe Variations

Here are some recipe variations for lentil patties that you can try:

• Spicy Lentil Patties: Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper to the lentil mixture for a spicy kick.
• Curry Lentil Patties: Add curry powder, cumin, and coriander to the lentil mixture for an Indian-inspired flavor.
• Herbed Lentil Patties: Add chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, cilantro, or basil, to the lentil mixture for a fresh and flavorful taste.
• Cheesy Lentil Patties: Mix in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the lentil mixture before forming into patties. This will add a delicious cheesy flavor to the patties.
• Mediterranean Lentil Patties: Add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the lentil mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
• Sweet Potato Lentil Patties: Mash some cooked sweet potato and mix it into the lentil mixture for added sweetness and creaminess.

Equipment

To bake lentil patties, you will need the following equipment:

• Baking sheet: A baking sheet is needed to place the lentil patties on and bake them in the oven. You can use a standard baking sheet or a non-stick baking sheet.
• Parchment paper or silicone mat: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat will prevent the lentil patties from sticking to the sheet and make cleanup easier.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is needed to combine the lentil patty ingredients and form them into patties.
• Fork or spatula: You will need a fork or spatula to flip the lentil patties over halfway through the baking time.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurately measuring the ingredients is important for achieving the right consistency and flavor.
• Food processor: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a food processor to blend the lentil mixture before forming into patties.

How to store Lentil Patties

To store lentil patties in the refrigerator, follow these steps:

1. Allow the lentil patties to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Place the patties in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and store it in the refrigerator.
4. The patties will keep for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

To store lentil patties in the freezer, follow these steps:

1. Allow the lentil patties to cool completely to room temperature.
2. Place the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
3. Once the patties are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and store it in the freezer.
5. The patties will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Lentil Patties Recipe Top tips

• Use the right lentils: Use dry green or brown lentils for the best texture and flavor. Avoid using red lentils, which are too mushy and may not hold together well.
• Cook the lentils properly: Cook the lentils until they are tender but not overcooked or mushy. Overcooked lentils will make the patties too soft and cause them to fall apart.
• Use fresh herbs and spices: Fresh herbs and spices will give the lentil patties a burst of flavor. Use a combination of your favorite herbs and spices to add depth and complexity to the patties.
• Add texture: Add texture to the lentil patties by mixing in chopped vegetables, nuts, or seeds. This will add crunch and make the patties more interesting to eat.
• Make the patties uniform in size: Form the lentil mixture into uniform-sized patties to ensure that they cook evenly and are easier to handle.
• Refrigerate the mixture before shaping: Refrigerate the lentil mixture for at least 30 minutes before shaping into patties. This will make the mixture firmer and easier to shape.
• Brush with oil: Brush the patties with a little bit of oil before baking or frying. This will help them develop a crispy exterior and prevent them from sticking to the pan.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.