Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are a delightful addition to your appetizer spread or snack table. Perfect for parties, picnics, or even a cozy night in, these patties are packed with flavor and nutrition. Their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior make them irresistible, especially when paired with a zesty lemon tahini dip. Plus, they’re vegan and gluten-free, catering to a variety of dietary preferences!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, these lentil patties come together fast.
- Flavorful: Infused with garlic, onion, and herbs, every bite bursts with deliciousness.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as appetizers, snacks, or part of a main dish; they fit any occasion.
- Healthy: Packed with protein and fiber, these patties are a guilt-free indulgence.
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or add your favorite ingredients for a unique twist.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these tasty lentil patties effectively, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool saves time by quickly blending the lentil mixture to the perfect consistency.
- Frying pan: A good frying pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy exterior on the patties.
Ingredients
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
Rinse the soaked red lentils thoroughly under cold water. Drain well before using them in the recipe.
Step 2: Blend Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, chickpea flour, coriander, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper. Pulse until you achieve a coarse mixture.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Using your hands, take small portions of the lentil mixture and form them into patties. Aim for about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying
In a frying pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Ensure it’s hot enough before adding the patties—test by dropping in a small amount of batter; it should sizzle.
Step 5: Fry Patties
Carefully place the formed patties into the hot oil. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Make the Lemon Tahini Dip
In a mixing bowl, combine tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic cloves, sea salt to taste, and enough water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well until smooth.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your crispy lentil patties warm alongside the lemon tahini dip. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired! Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
These Easy Lentil Patties are delightful when paired with various sides and dips. They make excellent appetizers or snacks for gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Serve with Lemon Tahini Dip
- A creamy dip made from tahini and lemon that perfectly complements the patties’ flavor.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- A light and crunchy salad can add freshness. Consider adding cucumbers, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette.
Enjoy in a Wrap
- Place the lentil patties in a wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini for a quick meal.
Add to a Grain Bowl
- Create a nourishing grain bowl by adding cooked quinoa or brown rice, topped with lentil patties and your favorite veggies.
Use as Burger Sliders
- Serve them as sliders on mini buns with lettuce, tomato, and more lemon tahini for a unique twist.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Top the patties with minced parsley or cilantro for extra flavor and color.
How to Perfect Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
To achieve the best texture and taste in your Easy Lentil Patties, consider these helpful tips.
- Soak lentils overnight: This softens the lentils, making them easier to blend and creating a better texture.
- Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients to maintain chunks for added texture; overmixing can result in mushy patties.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before frying; it’s easy to adjust salt and spices to your preference.
- Fry at the right temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough for frying—this helps create that crispy outer layer without absorbing too much oil.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other seasonings like cumin or paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Let patties rest: Allow formed patties to sit for about 10 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
When serving Easy Lentil Patties, consider these side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.
- Cucumber Mint Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced cucumbers, mint leaves, and a splash of lemon juice.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make a hearty side that pairs well with lentils.
- Hummus Platter: Serve assorted hummus flavors alongside pita chips and fresh vegetables for dipping.
- Tabbouleh Salad: This parsley-based salad with bulgur wheat adds freshness and a burst of flavor alongside the patties.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies offer a nice contrast that cuts through the richness of the tahini dip.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making them an irresistible combination.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs or nuts provides a nutritious base that complements lentil patties wonderfully.
- Grilled Eggplant Slices: Smoky grilled eggplant is another delicious option that enhances your meal’s Middle Eastern vibe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) can be delightful, but there are a few common mistakes to steer clear of for the best results.
- Skipping the soaking: Not soaking the lentils overnight can lead to a gritty texture. Always soak them to ensure they cook evenly and become soft.
- Overmixing the ingredients: Mixing too much can make the patties dense. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Using the wrong oil for frying: Some oils smoke at high temperatures. Choose olive oil or another high-smoke-point oil for frying your patties.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoned patties can taste bland. Don’t forget to taste your mixture before frying and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Not letting them rest: Frying immediately after mixing can cause them to fall apart. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to help them hold together better.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Place cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on high in 30-second intervals until hot, though this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat with a little oil until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re new to making Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip), you might have some questions. Here are some commonly asked ones:
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes! While red lentils work best for this recipe, you can experiment with green or brown lentils, adjusting cooking times as needed.
How do I know when the patties are done?
The patties should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. A good test is pressing down gently; they should feel firm but not hard.
What can I serve with these lentil patties?
These patties pair wonderfully with salads, rice bowls, or as part of a mezze platter with dips like hummus or baba ganoush.
Is there a gluten-free option for chickpea flour?
Yes! You can use almond flour or ground oats as substitutes if you’re looking for gluten-free options.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a healthier version, bake them at 375°F (190°C) on a parchment-lined sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip) are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different spices or herbs based on your taste preferences. Enjoy them as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of your main meal. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how simple and satisfying it is!
Easy Lentil Patties (with Lemon Tahini Dip)
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Easy Lentil Patties with Lemon Tahini Dip are a delicious and nutritious option perfect for any occasion. These crispy, golden patties are made from protein-packed red lentils and are infused with flavorful herbs and spices. Paired with a zesty lemon tahini dip, they make for an irresistible appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Vegan and gluten-free, this recipe caters to various dietary preferences while ensuring every bite is bursting with taste. With quick preparation and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry red lentils
- 1 medium white onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ tablespoon chickpea flour
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Sea salt and pepper
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Rinse the soaked lentils under cold water and drain.
- In a food processor, blend lentils, diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, chickpea flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until coarse.
- Form the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat until hot.
- Fry each patty for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- For the Lemon Tahini Dip: Mix tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and water to desired consistency in a bowl.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (45g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
