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#### Instructions:
##### 1. **Cook the Lentils**
Start by rinsing the dried lentils under cold water. Then, place them in a pot with 3 cups of water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor). Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let them simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and cooked through. Drain any excess liquid and set the lentils aside to cool slightly.
##### 2. **Prepare the Vegetables**
While the lentils are cooking, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. If you’re adding grated carrot or other vegetables, now is the time to include them. Sauté the vegetables for another 2-3 minutes until softened, then remove the pan from the heat and let it cool.
##### 3. **Mash the Lentils**
Once the lentils have cooled slightly, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the lentils, leaving some texture but breaking them down enough to form the base of your patties. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the lentils in a food processor for a few seconds.
##### 4. **Combine the Ingredients**
To the mashed lentils, add the sautéed onions and garlic (and any other vegetables you’ve chosen to add). Next, stir in the breadcrumbs, flaxseeds (or eggs), cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Mix everything together until fully combined. The mixture should hold together well but still be slightly sticky.
##### 5. **Shape the Patties**
With your hands, shape the lentil mixture into patties. You can make them as small or as large as you like, depending on your preferences. Aim for about 6-8 patties, each about ½ inch thick. If the mixture is too sticky, you can wet your hands slightly or add a bit more breadcrumbs to help with shaping.
##### 6. **Cook the Patties**
In a large frying pan or skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the lentil patties in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. If the patties are too delicate, you can also bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a lighter version.
##### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**
Once the patties are crispy and golden, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve your **lentil patties** on a bun like a burger, over a salad, or with a side of roasted vegetables or grains. You can also top them with your favorite condiments, such as avocado, hummus, or a yogurt-based sauce.
### Tips for Making the Best Lentil Patties
1. **Don’t Overcook the Lentils**: Be sure to cook the lentils just until they’re tender, but not mushy. Overcooked lentils will make the patties too soft and harder to handle.
2. **Make Ahead**: The lentil mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the patties even tastier.
3. **Freezing**: You can freeze the patties after cooking. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in a skillet or oven for a quick meal.
4. **Add Veggies**: Lentil patties are a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Feel free
to add things like spinach, zucchini, or even bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
5. **Adjust Spices**: Customize the spice profile based on your preferences. If you like things spicier, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
### Health Benefits of Lentil Patties
Beyond being a satisfying meal, **lentil patties** come with a wide range of health benefits that make them a smart choice for anyone looking to eat more plant-based foods.
– **High Protein**: As mentioned earlier, lentils are an excellent source of protein, making them a great choice for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.
– **Rich in Fiber**: Lentils are packed with soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps regulate digestion and support overall gut health.
– **Nutrient Dense**: Lentils are packed with important vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, potassium, and magnesium.
– **Low in Calories**: Lentil patties are lower in calories than meat patties, which makes them ideal for anyone looking to manage their weight without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
### Conclusion: Why Lentil Patties Are a Must-Try
In conclusion, **lentil patties** are a protein-rich, easy-to-make, and nutritious alternative to traditional meat patties. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet. Packed with flavor, fiber, and essential nutrients, lentil patties are not only better than meat but also better for your health and the environment.
So, next time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal, give **lentil patties** a try—you won’t be disappointed! From their rich texture to their customizable flavor profile, these patties are sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy!
