Easy Slider Crispy Lentil Veggie Patties
Highlighted under: Fast Easy Meals Ideas
I love trying out new and exciting vegetarian recipes, and these Easy Slider Crispy Lentil Veggie Patties have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. They are packed with flavor and have a delightful crunch that makes them perfect for sliders or as a snack. The blend of lentils and spices not only provides amazing taste but also offers tons of nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something tasty, these patties are both easy to make and satisfyingly delicious. You won’t be able to resist their charm!
When I first experimented with these patties, I was amazed at how simple they were to prepare yet packed with flavor. I cooked lentils until tender, then mixed them with spices and breadcrumbs, which created a delightful texture. The secret to the crispiness lies in lightly pan-frying them just enough to create that perfect golden crust without losing the moisture inside.
One thing I learned during my trials is to let the mixture rest before shaping the patties. This helps the breadcrumbs absorb moisture, making them easier to handle and shape. You can also customize the spices to suit your taste, adding ingredients like garlic powder or smoked paprika for a unique twist!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
- Packed with plant-based protein and nutrients
- Versatile and can be dressed up or down for any meal
Ingredient Insights
The star of these patties is undoubtedly the lentils. Not only do they provide a hearty texture, but they are also an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this dish satisfying and healthful. It’s important to cook the lentils until just tender; overcooked lentils can lead to a mushy mixture that won’t hold together when forming patties. Aim for about 20-25 minutes of simmering, and be sure to drain any excess liquid to keep the patties from becoming soggy.
Breadcrumbs play a vital role in giving these patties their structure. If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, consider using crushed crackers or rolled oats as a substitute. Just ensure they’re finely ground to maintain that desirable texture. You can also add flavor by using seasoned breadcrumbs, which can enhance the taste profile of your patties. In a pinch, gluten-free breadcrumbs can easily be swapped in for those with dietary restrictions.
Cooking Techniques
Getting the frying technique right is crucial for achieving those crispy edges. Heat your olive oil over medium heat—too hot, and the patties will burn before they cook through; too cool, and they will absorb excessive oil. A good test is to drop a small piece of the mixture in the pan; if it sizzles immediately, the pan is ready. Frying in batches also helps maintain the oil temperature, ensuring each patty gets that beautiful golden brown crust.
While frying is the traditional method, you can also bake these patties for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will yield crispy patties ideally suited for sliders without the extra oil.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious veggie patties:
Vegetal Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
Mix all ingredients thoroughly before moving on to the cooking steps.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your crispy patties:
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
Shape Patties
Form the mixture into small patties, about 1 inch thick.
Heat Oil
In a frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Fry Patties
Cook the patties in the hot oil for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Serve
Remove from the pan and serve warm in sliders or on their own with a dipping sauce!
Enjoy these patties with your favorite toppings or condiments!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try including chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Making Ahead and Storage
These lentil veggie patties are excellent for meal prep. You can prepare the lentil mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste. Alternatively, you can form the patties and freeze them for up to three months. Layer them with parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking, and simply fry or bake from frozen when you're ready to enjoy.
If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness compared to microwaving.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy lentil patties are incredibly versatile. For a fun slider, load them into mini burger buns with your favorite toppings like avocado, sprouts, or a spicy mayo. You can also serve them atop a fresh salad with a drizzle of tahini dressing for a light and nutritious meal. Pairing these patties with a zesty dipping sauce, such as chimichurri or tzatziki, can elevate the tasting experience immensely.
Feel free to experiment with spices to customize the flavor. Adding a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce can give these patties an extra kick. You can also mix in grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and moisture. This recipe serves as a fantastic base for creativity in the kitchen!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked patties. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.
→ What can I serve with the patties?
These patties are great in sliders or served with a side salad, and pair well with sauces like tahini or yogurt.
→ Can I use other beans instead of lentils?
Absolutely! You can replace lentils with black beans or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.
→ What if my mixture is too dry?
If the mixture is too dry to hold together, add a little water or vegetable stock to achieve the right consistency.
Easy Slider Crispy Lentil Veggie Patties
I love trying out new and exciting vegetarian recipes, and these Easy Slider Crispy Lentil Veggie Patties have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. They are packed with flavor and have a delightful crunch that makes them perfect for sliders or as a snack. The blend of lentils and spices not only provides amazing taste but also offers tons of nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something tasty, these patties are both easy to make and satisfyingly delicious. You won’t be able to resist their charm!
Created by: Maribel Sutton
Recipe Type: Fast Easy Meals Ideas
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetal Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and season with salt and pepper.
Form the mixture into small patties, about 1 inch thick.
In a frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Cook the patties in the hot oil for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Remove from the pan and serve warm in sliders or on their own with a dipping sauce!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try including chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g