Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups dried red lentils
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large shallot or 1 small onion, small dice (about 1/3 cup)
- 1/3 cup grated carrots dried with paper towel-optional (about 3 small)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Neutral cooking oil for pan frying (optional)
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Soak the lentils in enough water to cover by about 2 inches for two hours. Rinse and drain.
Add the drained lentils, garlic, shallot, carrot, tomato paste, cilantro, salt, and black pepper to a food processor. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture holds together, scraping the sides of the canister as needed.
Scoop out 1/4 cup of the mixture at a time and shape into patties about 1/2 inch thick.
Option 1: Bake the patties for 10 minutes. Flip them over and bake for about 10 minutes more, or until crispy on both sides.
Option 2: Heat enough oil in a large nonstick skillet to reach about halfway up the sides of the patties. Cook the patties for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. You may need to do this in batches. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Tips
The batter will feel sticky, but this is normal and should not be a concern.
The carrot and cooking oil are optional and can be omitted if desired.
This recipe serves 6 people and makes 12 patties.
