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#### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Lentils**: If you’re using dried lentils, rinse them thoroughly and cook them in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until they’re tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set the lentils aside to cool slightly.
2. **Prepare the Veggies**: In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. If you’re using any additional spices, like cumin or coriander, add them now and cook for another minute to release their flavors.
3. **Mash the Lentils**: Once the lentils are cool enough to handle, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the lentils, leaving some texture so the patties will hold together. You don’t want to mash them completely into a paste.
4. **Mix the Patty Ingredients**: Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the mashed lentils. Then, stir in the breadcrumbs, parsley, egg (or flax egg), lemon juice, soy sauce, and salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients.
5. **Form the Patties**: With your hands, shape the lentil mixture into patties about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should get around 8-10 patties, depending on the size.
6. **Cook the Patties**: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Be gentle when flipping the patties, as they can be delicate.
7. **Serve**: Serve the lentil patties on a bun like a traditional burger, or enjoy them as part of a salad, in a wrap, or on their own with your favorite sauce.
### Serving Ideas for Lentil Patties
Lentil patties are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next meal:
– **Classic Burger**: Serve the lentil patties on a toasted bun with fresh lettuce, tomato, avocado, pickles, and your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or vegan mayo.
– **Salad Topping**: Slice the lentil patties and serve them over a bed of mixed greens, quinoa, or couscous with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon dressing.
– **Wrap It Up**: Wrap the lentil patties in a tortilla with hummus, spinach, cucumber, and a dash of tahini or tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired wrap.
– **Bowl Meal**: Create a hearty bowl with roasted veggies, brown rice, and lentil patties, topped with a creamy dressing or a dollop of yogurt.
### Tips for the Perfect Lentil Patties
– **Don’t Overcook the Lentils**: Overcooked lentils can make the patties mushy. Make sure they’re tender but still hold their shape when mashed.
– **Adjust the Flavor**: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add chili flakes for some heat, smoked paprika for depth, or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for added flavor.
– **Make Ahead**: Lentil patties can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply fry them again in a hot skillet until crispy.
– **For Vegan Patties**: Simply swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) to make the patties fully vegan.
### Conclusion: A Delicious and Nutritious Alternative
Lentil patties are not just a great protein-packed alternative to meat; they’re also delicious, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, these patties will hit the spot. Plus, they’re customizable to suit your taste and dietary preferences, so you can enjoy them in countless ways.
By choosing lentil patties, you’re not only treating yourself to a meal full of plant-based protein and fiber, but you’re also making a conscious choice to enjoy a more sustainable, healthy, and flavorful alternative to meat. So give these lentil patties a try—you may just discover your new favorite go-to recipe!
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