Spiced Lentil Patties

Spiced Lentil Patties have become a beloved staple in my household, often gracing our dinner table with their aromatic allure and satisfying texture. The first time I made these patties, I was amazed by how quickly they disappeared, with even the pickiest eaters reaching for seconds. The combination of spices and the wholesome goodness of lentils create a dish that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly delicious. My family, who are always up for trying new vegetarian dishes, gave this recipe a resounding thumbs up. The patties are crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft, flavorful interior that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

The beauty of Spiced Lentil Patties lies in their simplicity and the use of easily accessible ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup of dried lentils, rinsed and drained
2 cups of water
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of ginger, grated
1 teaspoon of cumin powder
1 teaspoon of coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon of chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of oil for frying
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Creating these flavorful patties is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to achieve perfect Spiced Lentil Patties:

Start by cooking the lentils. In a medium-sized pot, combine the lentils with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the lentils simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and have absorbed most of the water.
Drain any excess water from the lentils and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to partially mash the lentils, leaving some whole for texture.
In a frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
Add the sautéed onion mixture to the lentils. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Add the breadcrumbs to the lentil mixture, season with salt and pepper, and mix until well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when formed into patties. If necessary, add more breadcrumbs.
Shape the mixture into small patties, about the size of your palm. You should be able to make around 10-12 patties.
In the same frying pan, add another tablespoon of oil and heat over medium heat. Cook the patties in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts

These Spiced Lentil Patties are not only delectable but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts:

Servings: 4 (3 patties each)
Calories per serving: approximately 250

Preparation Time

From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes making these patties. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cooking time. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering.

How to Serve

Spiced Lentil Patties are versatile and can be served in various ways:

Serve them as a main dish with a side of green salad and yogurt sauce.
Use them as a filling in wraps or sandwiches, paired with fresh vegetables and a dollop of hummus.
Top them with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice for an added burst of flavor.
Pair them with a spicy chutney or salsa for a tantalizing appetizer.
Enjoy them as a snack on their own, warm or at room temperature.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Spiced Lentil Patties turn out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:

Choose the right lentils: Green or brown lentils work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add different herbs like parsley or mint to customize the flavor to your liking.
Make ahead: Prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them. Cook them just before serving for maximum freshness.
Double the batch: These patties freeze well. Make a double batch and freeze the extras for a quick meal option on busy days.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

A: Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Be sure to rinse and drain them well before using. You may need to adjust the amount of breadcrumbs as canned lentils are softer.

Q: Are these patties gluten-free?

A: To make these patties gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Q: Can I bake these patties instead of frying?

A: Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the patties on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or the oven before serving.

Q: What can I serve with these patties for a complete meal?

A: For a well-rounded meal, serve the patties with quinoa or brown rice, a green salad, and a yogurt-based sauce or chutney.

With these insights and tips, you are well-equipped to make and enjoy Spiced Lentil Patties. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or planning a casual family meal, these patties are sure to impress and satisfy. Happy cooking!