Red Lentil Burger
This Red Lentil Burger is a protein-packed, plant-based delight inspired by Mediterranean flavors and modern vegetarian cuisine. It’s rich in spices, full of texture, and perfect for anyone seeking a healthy, hearty alternative to traditional meat burgers. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or baked, these burgers are a satisfying addition to any table.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup red lentils, dried rinsed well and drained
- 1 ½ cups water for boiling lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin recommended
- ½ cup onion, finely chopped yellow or red onion works well
- 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh for best flavor
- ½ cup grated carrot use fine grate for better binding
- ⅓ cup rolled oats gluten-free oats optional
- ⅓ cup chickpea flour helps bind the burger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds depth and smokiness
- ½ teaspoon sea salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked if possible
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil for pan-frying (e.g., grapeseed or avocado oil)
Instructions
- In a medium pot, bring 1 ½ cups of water and ¾ cup red lentils to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until lentils are soft but not mushy. Drain excess water and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a skillet over medium heat (350°F / 175°C), add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sauté chopped onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in grated carrot and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, chickpea flour, cumin, smoked paprika, sea salt, and pepper. Mix until fully incorporated. For best texture, mash slightly with a fork or use a potato masher — leaving some whole pieces for texture.
- Shape mixture into 4 equal-sized burger patties, pressing firmly into disks. If the mixture is too loose, add a bit more chickpea flour or let rest for 10 minutes to absorb residual moisture.
- Heat 1 tablespoon neutral oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Notes
- To enhance smokiness, add a pinch of chipotle powder.
- Substitute chickpea flour with oat flour or almond flour for a different flavor profile.
- You can cook and refrigerate the patties a day ahead for quick weeknight meals.
Nutrition
Calories: 266kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 317mgPotassium: 540mgFiber: 13gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2944IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 4mg
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