Simple Lentil Patties: A Budget-Friendly, Tasty Bite

I had some leftover cooked lentils sitting in my fridge and didn’t want to let them go to waste. Usually, I’d make a comforting lentil stew or soup, but this time, I felt like trying something different. I decided to turn those lentils into tasty little patties, and it worked out so well! These patties are super flavorful, and while they might not look fancy, they’re a great way to enjoy lentils in a fun new way.

They have a flavor that reminds me of falafel – earthy, savory, and a bit smoky thanks to the spices I added. The best part? They’re budget-friendly and use only simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. If you’re someone who likes to experiment in the kitchen, these lentil patties are the perfect blank canvas for adding extra herbs or spices to suit your taste.

The batter itself is quite forgiving. If you prefer firmer patties, simply add more flour to get the texture just right. I formed them by scooping a spoonful of the batter straight into the pan and gently pressing it down so they’d cook up flat and crispy.

Here’s the recipe I used to whip up these delicious patties. It’s easy, fast, and perfect for using up any leftover cooked lentils.

Ingredients:

• 170 g. cooked lentils
• ½ onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 egg
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sweet paprika powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chicken seasoning mix (with salt) (you can also simply use salt and add extra spices)
• 3 tbsp wheat flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
  

Instructions:

1. Finely chop the onion and garlic.
   
2. Mash the cooked lentils using a blender, leaving some texture for a better bite.
   
3. Add the egg and mix well with a fork.
   
4. Stir in the onion, garlic, flour and all the spices.
   
5. Mix well. If the batter feels too loose, add more flour to firm it up.
6. Heat the oil in a frying pan.
7. Using a spoon, scoop up some batter and gently press it down in the pan to form patties.
8. Cook the patties for a few minutes on each side until they’re golden and crispy.
   

These patties are so versatile! You can enjoy them as they are, stack them into a burger bun for a hearty veggie burger, or even wrap them up in a tortilla with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce. They’re great for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack.

I love how this simple recipe transformed my plain leftover lentils into something exciting and full of flavor. Next time you’ve got some lentils hanging around, definitely give these patties a try – they’re quick, satisfying, and surprisingly delicious!