Lentil Burgers

Looking for a tasty and nutritious vegetarian burger recipe? These Lentil Burgers are packed with protein and fiber, making them the perfect healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers. Made with simple ingredients like green lentils, carrots, oats, and spices, these hearty burgers are both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a meatless Monday meal or a vegan burger option, this recipe is a great choice!

Ingredients

For the Lentil Burgers:

• 2 cups cooked green lentils (well-dried)
• 2 shallots, roughly chopped
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup quick oats
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Burger Sauce:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dill powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Lentil Mixture: In a food processor, combine the cooked lentils, shallots, carrots, garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is mostly smooth, with a few small chunks for texture.
2. Add Oats: Add the quick oats and pulse briefly to combine. The mixture should be thick and hold its shape when formed into patties. If it’s too wet, gradually add more oats, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
3. Form Patties: Using your hands, shape the lentil mixture into 4 patties, each about 3-4 inches wide and ½-inch thick.
4. Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the lentil patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
5. Prepare the Sauce: While the patties are cooking, mix the Greek yogurt, parsley, dill powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This will be your burger sauce.
6. Serve: Once the patties are cooked, serve them on buns with a dollop of the burger sauce and your favorite toppings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Flavorful: These lentil burgers are packed with protein and fiber from the lentils and oats, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or meal prepping.
• Customizable: The burger sauce and toppings can be adjusted to your preferences, adding versatility to each burger.

Tips

• Texture Tip: If the mixture feels too wet to form patties, add more oats or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oats to absorb the moisture.
• Crispier Patties: For an extra crispy crust, add a bit more oil to the skillet or cook the patties at a slightly higher temperature for a few minutes.
• Make Ahead: The lentil mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before forming and cooking the patties.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats to make these burgers entirely gluten-free.
• Vegan Version: Skip the Worcestershire sauce (or use a vegan version) and swap the Greek yogurt in the sauce for a plant-based yogurt.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the lentil mixture or sauce for a spicy version.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to the mixture, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, for added flavor and nutrients.

FAQs

Can I make the patties ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I bake the lentil burgers instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.

How do I know when the lentil burgers are done? The patties should be golden brown and crispy on both sides. You can check their texture by gently pressing down on them; they should feel firm but not dry.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve these lentil burgers on whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• Top with fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.
• Pair with a side of sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy these lentil burgers as a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meat burgers!