Lentil Burgers
These hearty lentil burgers are a flavorful vegetarian option, combining tender lentils with spices and a crispy crust. Perfect for a nutritious, meat-free meal any day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cooked, cooled lentils, egg, cracker crumbs, minced onion, and salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix all ingredients together, adding just enough tomato juice to hold the mixture in shape when pattied.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Fry the patties in a small amount of hot oil until golden brown on both sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer patty, add additional cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs if needed. If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This recipe is versatile; feel free to add spices like cumin or chili powder for extra flavor. Serve with a dollop of your favorite sauce for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these lentil burgers on whole grain buns with fresh lettuce, tomato, and avocado. They pair beautifully with a side of Beautiful Cherry Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also top them with your favorite sauces or condiments for added flavor. Consider serving alongside sweet potato fries for a delicious meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lentil burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, pan-fry them on medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil Burgers contains roughly 351 calories, with 6g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 581mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these lentil burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lentil mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it easy to have a quick meal ready when you need it.
What can I use instead of lentils?
If you don't have lentils, you can substitute with cooked black beans or chickpeas. Just ensure they are well-drained and mashed slightly to help form the patties. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the different flavors.
Can I freeze the lentil burgers?
Absolutely! After forming the patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).