easy 6 ingredient lentil burgers are a true celebr edited — Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers 6

Why Make This Recipe

These Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers are a true celebration of flavor and simplicity. In a world bustling with complex recipes, sometimes we crave the comfort of home-cooked meals without all the fuss. Lentils are not only nutritious but also provide a hearty base that everyone can enjoy. By using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that connects you to the warmth of home, much like my grandmother used to do. These burgers are perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings with family and friends.

How to Make Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups dried red lentils
2 large garlic cloves (minced)
1 large shallot (or 1 small onion, small dice, about 1/3 cup)
1/3 cup grated carrots (about 3 small)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Neutral flavored cooking oil (for pan-frying, optional)

Directions:

Pre-heat the oven to 400ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Soak the lentils in enough water to cover by about 2 inches for two hours. Rinse and drain thoroughly.
Place the drained lentils, garlic, shallot, carrot, tomato paste, cilantro, salt, and black pepper into a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and holds together, scraping the sides of the canister as needed.
Shape ¼ cup of the mixture into patties, about ½ inch thick.
Option 1 Bake: Bake the patties for 10 minutes. Flip them over and bake for another 10 minutes, or until crispy on both sides.
Option 2 Pan-Fry: Heat enough oil in a large nonstick skillet to reach about halfway up the sides of the patties. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. (You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.) Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve with a bun and your favorite toppings, a side salad, or oven-roasted potatoes.

How to Serve Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers

These lentil burgers are so versatile! You can serve them on a toasted bun with fresh lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauces. Pair them with a light side salad for a refreshing contrast or enjoy them with oven-roasted potatoes for a comforting, filling meal. The possibilities are endless, just as each gathering in my kitchen tells a new story.

How to Store Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers

To store these lentil burgers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cooked burgers. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.

Tips to Make Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers

Make sure to soak the lentils as instructed for the best texture. This helps them cook evenly and blend well with the other ingredients.
Feel free to play around with spices and herbs. A pinch of cumin or a dash of chili powder can give your burgers a lovely twist.
If the mixture is too wet, add a bit of breadcrumbs to help bind it.
Keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust slightly based on your stove or oven, as they can vary.

easy 6 ingredient lentil burgers are a true celebr

Variations

If you’re looking to add a creative touch, you can mix in different veggies like spinach or bell peppers. For added protein, consider adding a handful of cooked quinoa. You might also try swapping out fresh cilantro for parsley for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

How Long Do Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers Last?

These burgers will last up to 3 days in the fridge if stored properly in an airtight container. If you freeze them, they can keep well for about 3 months. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing!

Can I Bake Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers Instead of Pan-Frying?

Yes! Baking is a great way to prepare these burgers. Preheat your oven to 400ºF and bake the patties for about 10 minutes on each side until they’re crispy. This method is healthier and offers a wonderful texture.

Can I Use Different Lentils for This Recipe?

While red lentils offer a smooth texture, you can experiment with other varieties like green or brown lentils. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so ensure they are well-cooked before blending.

Can I Make Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the burger mixture ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. You can also cook the patties ahead of time and simply reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

I invite you to try these Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers. They are a heartfelt nod to the simplicity and warmth of cooking at home, much like the stories shared around my grandmother’s kitchen table. I hope this recipe brings you comfort and joy as it does for me. If you enjoyed this dish, remember to follow me on Pinterest and Medium for more comforting recipes to make with love.