No Fuss Red Lentil Patties : Quick, Easy, and Protein-Rich

 

If your cholesterol is high and your doctor has suggested cutting back on meat, including more high fiber plant-based foods in your diet, such as these easy red lentil patties, may be something you and your doctor may like. 

It may be time to experiment with plant-based eating. Red lentils cook up quickly and are hearty and satisfying. They are high in protein, packed with fiber and provide a great variety of health protecting antioxidants and nutrients to your diet. Of course they are naturally gluten-free. 

You'll love this simple recipe for making lentil patties.

Red lentil patty topped with baba ganooj, and baked fries

Red lentils are high in protein, fiber, and nutrients, while being low in fat and calories. They cook up quickly, are easy to digest, and taste delicious. 

Freeze Well Too

They are a great grab and go meal or can be stored in the freezer and popped out as needed. 

The recipe is fairly simple and quite tasty. I usually like to eat these patties with a side of non-fat salsa for dipping.

Soak lentils, process in food processor,  bake or air-fry

I simply soak my uncooked red lentils for 2-3 hours, drain, and throw then into the food processor with the remainder of ingredients. I then form mounds on a parchment covered pan and bake or air-fry for 15 minutes. 

They hold together beautifully, are easy to pick up, and taste great on a sandwich or over rice. 

They also freeze well and can be kept in the freezer and popped out for a quick lunch.

Since women need between 21-25 grams of fiber/day and a cup of cooked red lentils provides over 15 grams, this is a valuable source of fiber. ( a cup also provides 18 grams of protein) .Most whole grain breads only provide 2 grams of fiber.

Did you know that meat/chicken/fish/eggs provide zero fiber? 

Why is fiber very important? 

• Helps maintain healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
• Supports heart health by reducing cholesterol levels.
• Helps regulate blood sugar 
• Helps promote a healthy gut microbiome

Ingredients:

1 and 1/2 cups of uncooked red lentils, soaked for 3 hours and drained 

1/2 cup of roasted red peppers (from a jar)

6 medium white mushrooms, cleaned and sliced 

2 cloves garlic, sliced 

3 tablespoons salsa

2 green onions, chopped

1/2 cup of cilantro or parsley

1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder 

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: cumin, red pepper flakes

Directions: 

Preheat oven, toaster oven, or air-fryer to 425 degrees. 

Place all ingredients in a food processor. Using the blade, pulse until mixed. 

Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop batter and place patties on a parchment covered sheet in your toaster oven, air-fryer, or oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until baked. Flip if necessary and cook additional 5 minutes. (It was not necessary for me).

Enjoy with salsa, baba ganooj, or even sauerkraut. 

My Notes: 

1. This recipe is gluten-free, vegan, plant-based, dairy-free

2. You could add 1/2 cup ground oat flour for a heavier burger,