Main Dish

Lentil Burger Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

Name: Lentil Burger Recipe – Simple Food Dishes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, shredded; 2 cups cooked brown lentils; 3/4 cup finely ground oat flour; 2 tbsp tomato ketchup or roasted red pepper puree; 2 tbsp tamari, low-sodium soy sauce, or coconut aminos; 1 tbsp nutritional yeast; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, finely grated or mashed; 1/2 tbsp dried parsley or finely chopped fresh parsley; 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup; Pinch of salt

Lisa Schneider February 18, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the wonderful world of lentil burgers, let’s consider what pairs beautifully with this dish. Think about fresh, crunchy salads that compliment the savory depth of lentils. A zesty coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch, while a side of sweet potato fries offers a delightful sweetness that contrasts with the burger’s flavors.

You might also enjoy it with a homemade tzatziki sauce for an extra zing. And let’s not forget about drinks! A light, citrusy beverage like lemonade or herbal iced tea keeps the meal refreshing.

What is a Lentil Burger?

A lentil burger is a delightful vegetarian alternative to the traditional meat burger. Made primarily from cooked lentils, it often includes a variety of vegetables and spices to create a flavor-packed patty. The texture can be hearty and satisfying, providing a similar mouthfeel to its meat counterpart, all while being rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Lentil Burgers?

Not all lentil burgers are created equal. What sets this recipe apart is its unique blend of ingredients that enhance flavor and texture. The addition of spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and nutritional yeast creates a depth that many recipes lack.

The use of oat flour binds everything together while adding a mild nutty flavor without overwhelming the dish. And let’s not ignore the delicious lemon-herb yogurt dip, which takes the burger to a new level.

How Does It Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a patty that is both earthy and comforting. The lentils provide a robust base, while the spices awaken your taste buds. Each bite is savory, slightly smokey, and accented with a hint of brightness from the lemon in the dip.

Each flavor complements the other perfectly; it’s a satisfying blend that beckons for another bite. Trust me; this is one burger you will not forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:

Lentil Fritters

2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1/2 medium white onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, shredded
2 cups cooked brown lentils
3/4 cup finely ground oat flour
2 tbsp tomato ketchup or roasted red pepper puree
2 tbsp tamari, low-sodium soy sauce, or coconut aminos
1 tbsp nutritional yeast
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Lemon-Herb Yogurt Dip

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, finely grated or mashed
1/2 tbsp dried parsley or finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup
Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic, shred the carrots, and ensure your lentils are cooked and ready to go.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and shredded carrots, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently. This step enhances the flavors and adds a lovely aroma to your kitchen.

Step 3: Mix the Burger Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, oat flour, ketchup or roasted red pepper puree, tamari, nutritional yeast, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Use a fork or your hands to mix everything until fully combined. The mixture should feel moist but hold together.

Step 4: Shape the Patties

With clean hands, form the lentil mixture into patties, roughly the size of your palm. Curl them tightly to ensure they hold together during cooking. This gives you about six generous patties.

Step 5: Cook the Patties

In a clean skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the lentil patties. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice golden crust.

Step 6: Prepare the Lemon-Herb Yogurt Dip

While the patties are cooking, prepare your dip. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, grated garlic, parsley, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.

Tips & Tricks On Making Lentil Burger

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables improve flavor significantly.
Don’t overcook the lentils: Ensure they’re cooked just right to avoid mushiness; you want some texture.
Chill the mixture: If your patty mixture feels too loose, pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to help firm it up.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to mix in spices that you love, like coriander or chili powder for a little heat.
Consider baking: If you prefer a healthier option, bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How Do I Store This Dish?

If you want to store leftovers, simply let the patties cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They stay fresh for up to three days.

You can also freeze them; just layer parchment paper between each patty when stacking to prevent sticking. Thaw fully before reheating.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Lentil Burger?

Chickpeas: Swap lentils for chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.
Quinoa: This can add a delightful nuttiness and a different nutrient profile.
Black beans: They provide a deep, rich flavor that pairs well with spices.
Rice: Cooked brown rice can add bulk and a chewy texture to your burger.
Mushrooms: Finely chopped mushrooms create a savory depth and moisture.

Conclusion

Now, after exploring the world of lentil burgers, I hope you feel inspired to give this recipe a try. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. From the smell of sautéed onions to the delicious crunch of a perfectly cooked patty, each step is a journey.

So gather those ingredients and get cooking! Trust me, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to try making this incredible burger. Whether you serve it at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, I promise it will be a hit. Happy cooking!

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Lentil Burger Recipe – Simple Food Dishes

Author: Lisa Schneider Cuisine: Indian Courses: Main Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 30 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 200 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

I remember the first time I made lentil burgers. Admittedly, I was skeptical. Growing up, I thought burgers meant juicy beef patties sizzling on the grill. But one day, I craved something different. I wanted to experiment.

After a bit of research, I found a lentil burger recipe that seemed not only delicious but also simple and healthy. So, armed with a handful of ingredients and a good dose of curiosity, I set out to craft my culinary masterpiece. That day changed my life—and my understanding of what a good burger can be.