Savory Lentil Patties Recipe

Quick & Savory Lentil Patties Recipe: Crispy Plant-Based Goodness

My kitchen adventures recently uncovered these delightful savory lentil patties that revolutionize plant-based cooking.

Crispy edges and soft centers make these little wonders irresistible to anyone seeking hearty meal options.

Packed with protein and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, these patties combine simple ingredients into something magical.

Nutritious legumes blend seamlessly with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a dish that feels both comforting and exciting.

Quick to prepare and impossible to resist, these patties work perfectly as a main course or tasty appetizer.

Vegetarians and meat-lovers alike will appreciate the rich, satisfying texture that makes every bite memorable.

Jump into this recipe and discover how lentils can become your new favorite culinary canvas.

Why Savory Lentil Patties Deserve A Spot On Your Plate

  • Quick Plant-Based Protein Boost: Pack your meal with nutritious lentils that deliver a hearty protein punch without meat, perfect for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.
  • Simple One-Bowl Preparation: Mix ingredients in a single bowl, making cleanup a breeze and reducing kitchen mess while ensuring maximum flavor blending.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Adaptable patties work great as appetizers, main course, or burger alternatives, appealing to different taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Family-Friendly Cooking: Easy to customize with kids' favorite herbs or spices, these patties encourage kitchen collaboration and introduce healthy eating in a fun way.

What Goes Into Savory Lentil Patties

Main Protein Base:
  • Cooked Lentils: A hearty and nutritious legume that serves as the primary foundation for these savory patties.
Vegetable Ingredients:
  • Onion, Garlic, Carrot: A classic flavor-building trio that adds depth, sweetness, and aromatic complexity to the lentil mixture.
  • Parsley, Cilantro: Fresh herbs that bring brightness and a vibrant green color to the patties.
Binding and Texture Ingredients:
  • Breadcrumbs, Eggs: Essential components that help bind the patties together and provide a crisp, cohesive texture.
  • Salt, Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that enhance and balance the overall flavor profile of the patties.
  • Olive Oil: A cooking medium that helps create a golden, crispy exterior when frying the patties.

How To Make Savory Lentil Patties Like A Pro

Step 1: Blend Lentil Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your cooked lentils with finely chopped ingredients:
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Carrot
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Eggs
  • Parsley
  • Cilantro
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and create a cohesive mixture.

Step 2: Warm the Cooking Surface

Place a skillet over medium heat and drizzle a thin layer of olive oil, allowing it to heat evenly across the pan’s surface.

Step 3: Shape and Sizzle Patties

Gently form the lentil mixture into round, flat patties using your hands. Carefully place each patty into the heated skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until a beautiful golden-brown crust develops.

Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking

Carefully flip each patty and cook the opposite side for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring a crispy exterior and thoroughly heated center.

Step 5: Remove and Drain

Transfer the cooked lentil patties onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil, which helps maintain their crispy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your savory lentil patties and serve immediately while they’re warm and crisp. These versatile patties pair wonderfully with fresh salads, yogurt sauce, or as a protein-packed sandwich filling.

Tips For Flavorful Savory Lentil Patties

  • Pat lentil mixture firmly to ensure patties hold together without falling apart during cooking.
  • Use a non-stick skillet to prevent patties from sticking and breaking when flipping.
  • Refrigerate patties for 15-20 minutes before frying to help them maintain shape and improve texture.
  • For gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with ground rolled oats or almond flour.
  • Add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary for deeper flavor complexity and aromatic profile.

Creative Ways To Change Savory Lentil Patties

  • Spicy Southwest Patties: Add diced jalapeños, cumin, chili powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper to the lentil mixture for a zesty kick.
  • Mediterranean Herb Patties: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and dried oregano for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
  • Curry Coconut Patties: Mix in curry powder, shredded coconut, and a touch of turmeric to create an aromatic and exotic version of the original recipe.
  • Smoky Roasted Vegetable Patties: Fold in roasted bell peppers, smoked paprika, and caramelized onions for a deep, rich taste sensation.

Perfect Pairings For Savory Lentil Patties

  • Boost Flavor Pairing: Crisp Greek Tzatziki Sauce – Tangy yogurt-based dip perfectly complements the earthy lentil patties, adding cool creaminess and refreshing cucumber notes.
  • Wine Companion: Light Pinot Noir – Elegant red wine with soft tannins and subtle fruit undertones enhances the savory depth of the lentil patties without overpowering their delicate texture.
  • Fresh Herbal Salad: Bright Mediterranean Greens – Zesty arugula, fresh mint, and lemony herb mix creates a vibrant side that cuts through the richness of the patties and adds textural contrast.

How To Store Savory Lentil Patties Right

  • Refrigerate: Store cooled lentil patties in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual patties in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 2 months for best quality and taste.
  • Reheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F, place patties on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Restores crispy exterior and maintains moisture.
  • Skillet Reheating: Warm patties in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they're crisp and hot throughout without drying out.

Savory Lentil Patties—Your FAQs Covered

  • Are lentil patties healthy?

Lentil patties are protein-rich, low in fat, and packed with nutrients like fiber, iron, and folate. They offer a nutritious plant-based alternative to meat patties.

  • Can I make the patties gluten-free?

Yes, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like ground oats, almond flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe celiac-friendly.

  • Do I need to pre-cook lentils before making patties?

Always use pre-cooked lentils. Cook them until tender but not mushy, then drain and cool before mixing with other ingredients to ensure proper patty consistency.

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Savory Lentil Patties Recipe

Savory Lentil Patties Recipe


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4.8 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: Depending on batches
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty lentil patties bring Mediterranean comfort straight to your kitchen, blending protein-packed legumes with herbs and spices. Crisp outside and tender within, these patties offer a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (500 milliliters) cooked lentils
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) breadcrumbs
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated

Herbs and Seasonings:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Cooking Fat:

  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly blend cooked lentils with finely chopped vegetables, herbs, and binding ingredients in a spacious mixing vessel until completely integrated.
  2. Create uniform circular patties by carefully shaping the mixture with clean hands, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
  3. Warm a heavy-bottomed skillet with a thin olive oil layer over medium heat, reaching approximately 350°F.
  4. Gently place prepared patties into the heated skillet, allowing sufficient space between each to prevent overcrowding.
  5. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes on initial side until edges turn golden brown and crisp, indicating caramelization is developing.
  6. Carefully flip patties using a spatula, cooking additional 3-4 minutes until opposite side achieves similar golden-brown coloration.
  7. Transfer cooked patties onto absorbent paper towels to eliminate excess oil, which helps maintain their delicate crispness.
  8. Allow patties to rest momentarily, enabling internal temperature to stabilize and flavors to harmonize before serving.
  9. Plate and garnish with fresh herbs or accompanying sauce for enhanced visual appeal and complementary taste profile.

Notes

  • Achieve the perfect texture by draining cooked lentils thoroughly to prevent soggy patties.
  • Create gluten-free versions by substituting breadcrumbs with almond meal or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Enhance flavor complexity by adding smoked paprika or cumin for a deeper, more robust taste profile.
  • Prep patties in advance and refrigerate for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold together better during frying.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes per batch
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 8 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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