Ingredients
Lentil Base
- 2 cups dry red lentils
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Oils
- 6 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
Instructions
- Cook Lentils: In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed lentils with 1/2 teaspoon salt, and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer Lentils: Once boiling, continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes, until lentils are softened.
- Drain Lentils: Drain excess liquid from the lentils and set them aside.
- Cook Onion and Aromatics: In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until just turning translucent.
- Add Garlic and Thyme: Add the minced garlic and fresh thyme to the skillet, stir to combine, then remove from heat.
- Puree Lentils: Place 2/3 of the cooked lentils into a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until mostly smooth.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the whole and pureed lentils, Italian seasoning, paprika, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, fresh parsley, flour, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until fully combined.
- Shape Patties: Lightly oil the palms of your hands, then divide the lentil mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties.
- Fry Patties: In a large skillet, heat the remaining 4 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium heat. Place the patties into the hot oil in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the patties and drain on paper towels. Repeat the frying process with the remaining patties. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme if unavailable, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
- Serve these lentil patties with a side of yogurt sauce, chutney, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the pan while frying to ensure even crisping.
- These patties can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes as a lighter alternative to frying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
- Diet: Vegetarian
