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Crispy Fried Lentil Patties Recipe

Lentil patties are a delightful plant-based dish that not only offers a unique taste but also brings numerous health benefits. Rich in protein, fibre, and essential minerals, lentils are a fantastic ingredient for creating wholesome meals. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of making crispy fried lentil patties that are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish served alongside a salad or rice.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Patties:

• 1 cup dried brown or green lentils
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley or coriander, chopped (optional)
• 1-2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for binding
• Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil works well)

For Serving:

• Greek yoghurt or vegan alternative
• Fresh salad or chutney
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

Begin by rinsing the dried lentils under cold water to remove any impurities. Place the rinsed lentils in a saucepan and cover with plenty of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain the cooked lentils and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If you are using fresh herbs, stir them in at this point. Using a fork or the back of a spoon, mash the mixture gently to help bind the ingredients together. If the mixture feels too wet, add one or two tablespoons of flour until you achieve a manageable consistency that holds together.

Step 4: Form the Patties

With your hands, shape the lentil mixture into small patties, approximately the size of a golf ball, and then flatten them slightly to create a disc shape. Place the formed patties on a plate or tray lined with baking parchment to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Fry the Patties

In a large frying pan, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test this by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready), carefully place a few patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

These crispy fried lentil patties can be served warm with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or a vegan alternative, along with a fresh salad or tangy chutney. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing touch and enhances the flavours beautifully.

Tips for Success

• For added texture, consider mixing in cooked quinoa or other grains.
• Ensure your oil is hot enough for frying; otherwise, the patties may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• These patties can be made ahead of time and frozen before frying. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Crispy fried lentil patties are a versatile and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether served as a starter, a side dish, or a delicious vegetarian main course, they are sure to impress. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and share it with family and friends!