Savory Lentil Patties

Instructions:

1. Prep the Lentils: Rinse the red lentils thoroughly and cook them according to package instructions until soft but not mushy. Once cooked, drain any excess water and let them cool slightly.
2. Sauté Veggies: Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped shallot, minced garlic, and grated carrot until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool.
3. Mash and Mix: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed veggies, chopped parsley, tomato puree, salt, and black pepper. Mash the mixture slightly with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture. If you’re using breadcrumbs and/or eggs for binding, add them now and mix well to combine.
4. Form Patties: Shape the mixture into patties. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to help it hold together.
5. Cook Patties: Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve: Enjoy these savory lentil patties hot, with your favorite sides or as a burger patty with all the fixings. They’re delicious on their own or with a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce on top.

Tips:

• To prevent the patties from falling apart while cooking, ensure the lentil mixture is well mashed and has enough binding ingredients.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends to customize the flavor of your lentil patties.
• These patties freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep. Simply cook them according to the instructions, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use green lentils instead of red lentils?
A: While red lentils cook faster and have a slightly sweeter flavor, you can substitute green lentils if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked through and crispy.