Are you ready to elevate your burger game with a mouthwatering twist? These Lentil Burgers are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make ahead and freeze for those busy weeknights! Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, they are the perfect vegan alternative that will satisfy even the most devoted meat lovers. Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden-brown patty that’s as hearty as it is healthy. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the simple steps to create these scrumptious lentil burgers that you can enjoy anytime!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. If you haven't already, cook 1 cup of lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils with 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. This will help bind the mixture together.
- Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion to the bowl, along with 2 cloves of minced garlic. These ingredients will add flavor and moisture to the burgers.
- Next, stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. The spices will give the burgers a warm, smoky flavor.
- Using a fork or your hands, mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be cohesive but not overly wet; if it feels too loose, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Once the mixture is ready, divide it into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the lentil patties in the skillet.
- Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be gentle when flipping them to avoid breaking.
- Once cooked, transfer the lentil burgers to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- If you plan to freeze the burgers, allow them to cool completely before wrapping each patty individually in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container.
- Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Tips
- Prep Your Ingredients: Start by cooking your lentils to the perfect tenderness. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your burgers. Let them cool before mixing.
- Mixing It Up: When combining your ingredients, use a fork or your hands to ensure everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be cohesive but not overly wet; if it feels loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Perfect Patty Formation: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2 inch thick. This thickness allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
- Cooking Technique: Heat your skillet over medium heat and don’t rush the cooking process. Allow each patty to develop a golden-brown crust, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Be gentle when flipping to keep them intact.
- Freezing for Later: If you’re making these burgers ahead of time, let them cool completely before wrapping each patty in plastic wrap or placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months!
- Reheating Tips: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen burgers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through for the best texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
