Lentil Patties Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with Lentil Patties, a satisfying and flavor-packed dish that combines wholesome lentils, fresh herbs, and warming spices into crave-worthy bites. These patties strike that perfect balance between hearty comfort and feel-good nutrition, making them an irresistible addition to your everyday meals or party spreads. Whether you enjoy them hot from the skillet, tucked into pitas, or cooled for a snack on the go, lentil patties deliver big-time flavor with a minimal ingredient list—a true favorite for plant-based eaters and omnivores alike.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe has a purpose, contributing to the robust flavor, tender texture, and inviting color of the finished lentil patties. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity—it’s the combination of these kitchen staples that makes this dish shine.

• Brown or green lentils: These provide the hearty, protein-rich base and help bind the patties beautifully.
• Onion: Finely chopped, onion adds subtle sweetness and essential moisture.
• Garlic: Just a couple of cloves bring loads of savory depth and warmth.
• Carrot: Grated carrot lends a faint earthy sweetness and a pretty pop of color.
• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro: Fresh herbs make the patties taste exceptionally bright and inviting.
• Ground cumin: This spice introduces a gentle smoky flavor that complements the lentils.
• Paprika: Adds a hint of peppery sweetness and enhances color.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.
• Bread crumbs: These help bind the mix and create a crisp, golden exterior.
• Egg (or flax egg for vegans): Holds everything together without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• Olive oil: For pan-frying, delivering a golden crust and subtle richness.

How to Make Lentil Patties

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

Start by giving the lentils a good rinse, then place them in a saucepan with plenty of water (about three times their volume). Bring everything to a simmer and let the lentils cook until tender but not mushy, usually 15 to 20 minutes. Drain off any excess water and let the lentils cool to room temperature—this makes them easier to handle later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While your lentils are cooling, heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet. Add your finely chopped onion, garlic, and grated carrot, then sauté until everything is soft, fragrant, and just starting to caramelize. This step layers in sweetness and helps coax out the best flavors from your veggies.

Step 3: Mix and Mash the Patties

In a large bowl, combine the cooled lentils, sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add your bread crumbs and the egg (or flax egg, if going vegan). Use a fork or your hands to gently mash the mixture until it holds together but still has some texture—think chunky hummus rather than puree. If the mix seems too wet, add a bit more bread crumb; if too dry, a splash of water helps.

Step 4: Shape the Lentil Patties

Scoop generous spoonfuls of the mixture and form into puck-shaped patties, about a half-inch thick. Place them on a lined tray as you go, making sure they’re uniform in size for even cooking. You should end up with 8 to 10 patties, depending on your preferred portion.

Step 5: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, gently add the patties (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden and crisp. You can keep finished patties warm in a low oven as you work through each batch.

How to Serve Lentil Patties

Garnishes

Lentil patties absolutely adore a little extra flair! Pile on chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, add a squeeze of lemon for brightness, or drizzle with a garlicky yogurt sauce or tahini for extra richness. Even a quick sprinkle of flaky sea salt goes a long way in amplifying their flavor.

Side Dishes

For a satisfying meal, team your lentil patties with a crisp green salad, a tangy slaw, or roasted veggies. Warm pita or flatbread on the side works wonders for scooping up every last bite. If you want something heartier, serve them alongside rice pilaf or herby quinoa.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate! Stack lentil patties in a burger bun with pickled onions and creamy spreads, chop them into strips for nutritious lunch wraps, or break them over grain bowls. They’re just as happy starring in party sliders as they are crumbled onto salads for extra protein and crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover lentil patties fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to four days, making them perfect for quick lunches or meal prepping in advance.

Freezing

If you want to save some for another time, lay the cooked (or uncooked) lentil patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag, where they’ll keep beautifully for up to three months. This is my favorite trick for always having a speedy dinner on hand!

Reheating

To enjoy lentil patties again, reheat them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crisp on both sides. You can also pop them in the oven (350°F for 10 minutes) or even use a toaster oven if you’re in a hurry. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to ensure the center is hot and tender.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Canned lentils are a great shortcut. Just rinse and drain them well, and they’ll work beautifully in your lentil patties. You might need to reduce the cook time slightly since canned lentils are softer.

What can I use instead of bread crumbs for a gluten-free version?

You can substitute gluten-free bread crumbs or use quick oats pulsed in a food processor. Chickpea flour is another great option for binding and adds an extra protein punch.

Can I bake lentil patties instead of frying?

Yes! Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy as pan-fried, but they’re every bit as delicious.

Are these patties good for kids?

Kids love lentil patties, especially because they’re soft and easy to eat. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit their taste and serve them with familiar dips like ketchup or yogurt sauce.

How can I meal prep with lentil patties?

Lentil patties are ideal for meal prep since they hold up well in the fridge and reheat quickly. Make a double batch and use them for lunches, salads, or wraps throughout the week for a wholesome boost.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made lentil patties before, now’s the perfect time to give them a try—they’re easy, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to win over everyone at the table. Once you taste their rich, savory flavor and realize how simple they are to whip up, you’ll want to keep this recipe in regular rotation. Happy cooking!

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