Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. They are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a light lunch. With their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior, these patties deliver on taste while being simple to prepare. The accompanying lemon tahini dip adds a zesty twist that elevates these lentil patties to another level. Enjoy them at parties, family gatherings, or as a healthy treat for yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: Packed with spices and fresh ingredients, the patties burst with flavor in every bite.
- Versatile: Serve these lentil patties as appetizers, snacks, or even as a light main dish.
- Healthy Option: These patties are made from nutrient-rich lentils and pair perfectly with a nutritious lemon tahini dip.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: This dish caters to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: It helps in easily blending the lentil mixture to achieve the right consistency for the patties.
- Frying pan: A non-stick frying pan ensures even cooking and prevents the patties from sticking.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results each time you make these delicious lentil patties.
Ingredients
These bite-sized lentil patties are crispy on the outside yet soft and flavorful on the inside. Pair them with a side of garlicky lemon tahini dip, and you’ll be licking your fingers clean!
For the Lentil Patties
- 2 cups dry red lentils, rinsed & soaked overnight
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ tablespoon chickpea flour
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Sea salt & pepper to taste
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For the Lemon Tahini Dip
- ⅓ cup runny tahini
- 4 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1-2 cloves garlic
- Sea salt to taste
- Water to thin
- Fresh parsley, minced
- Squeeze of lemon
How to Make Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils
Start by draining and rinsing your soaked lentils. Then place them in a food processor along with half of the diced onion and garlic.
Step 2: Blend Ingredients
Blend until you have a coarse mixture. Add tomato paste, chickpea flour, coriander, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper. Pulse again until combined.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Using your hands, form small patties from the mixture. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
Step 4: Heat Oil in Pan
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot enough before adding patties.
Step 5: Fry the Patties
Carefully place the patties in the pan without overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Step 6: Make Lemon Tahini Dip
In a bowl, combine tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and enough water to achieve desired consistency. Stir well until smooth.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your crispy lentil patties warm with a generous drizzle of lemon tahini dip on the side. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you want them as appetizers or snacks, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.
As an Appetizer
- Serve them warm with toothpicks for easy eating at parties or gatherings.
In a Wrap
- Place the patties in a whole-grain wrap with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber for a satisfying lunch.
On a Salad
- Crumble the patties over a bed of mixed greens, adding some cherry tomatoes and avocado for a refreshing salad option.
With Dips
- Pair the lentil patties with various dips such as hummus or guacamole for added flavor and richness.
For Meal Prep
- Store them in the refrigerator and pack them in lunch boxes with sides like quinoa or roasted vegetables for nutritious meals throughout the week.
How to Perfect Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
To make your Easy Lentil Patties even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Soak the lentils: Proper soaking ensures they cook evenly and become soft enough to blend well.
- Don’t over-mix: Mix just until combined to maintain the texture of the patties; too much mixing can make them dense.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before frying, adding more spices or salt if needed for flavor enhancement.
- Use a non-stick pan: This helps prevent sticking and allows for easy flipping while frying the patties.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra burst of flavor.
- Fry in batches: Cooking in smaller portions keeps the oil temperature steady, resulting in crispier patties.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
Pairing your Easy Lentil Patties with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mix of parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat that adds freshness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted to perfection enhance flavors beautifully.
- Couscous Pilaf: Light and fluffy couscous cooked with spices offers a great base under the lentil patties.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled gives a delightful crunch alongside the patties.
- Hummus Platter: A rich assortment of hummus flavors served with pita chips is perfect for dipping those lentil bites.
- Greek Yogurt Dip: A cool dip made from yogurt mixed with herbs adds creaminess that balances the dish nicely.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory parcels filled with rice and herbs provide an authentic Middle Eastern touch.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad mixed with vegetables makes it hearty enough to complement your lentil patties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using dry lentils directly: Always soak your lentils overnight. This ensures they cook evenly and become soft enough to mash.
- Over-seasoning the mixture: Start with the recommended spices and adjust as needed. It’s easier to add than to take away!
- Not frying at the right temperature: Ensure your oil is hot before adding patties. This helps achieve that crispy exterior you desire.
- Skipping the tahini dip: The lemon tahini dip complements these patties perfectly. Don’t miss out on this essential flavor!
- Ignoring the rest time: Letting the mixture rest allows flavors to meld together, enhancing overall taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow patties to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Freeze on a baking sheet for about 1 hour until firm.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container; they’ll last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a non-stick skillet with a little olive oil until crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip):
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can use green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary. Ensure they are soft before mashing.
How do I make the lemon tahini dip?
Simply mix tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and water until smooth. Season with salt!
Are these patties gluten-free?
Absolutely! They are made without any gluten-containing ingredients, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Serve them as appetizers or snacks, and enjoy their flavorful combination with the creamy dip!
Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 patties 1x
Description
Easy Lentil Patties with Lemon Tahini Dip are a delightful and nutritious option for any occasion. These crispy, golden patties have a soft, flavorful interior that makes them perfect as appetizers, snacks, or even a light lunch. Pair them with a zesty lemon tahini dip to elevate your culinary experience. They are easy to prepare and cater to various dietary preferences, making them an excellent choice for gatherings or healthy meals at home. Enjoy these versatile patties warm, and watch as they become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry red lentils (soaked overnight)
- 1 medium white onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ tablespoon chickpea flour
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Sea salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Drain and rinse soaked lentils. In a food processor, blend with half of the onion and garlic until coarse.
- Add tomato paste, chickpea flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; pulse until combined.
- Form small patties from the mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat until hot.
- Fry patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- For the lemon tahini dip, mix tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, and water until smooth.
- Serve warm with the dip.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
