Vegetarian Burger Recipe Lentils That Everyone Will Love

Are you craving a delicious, hearty burger that’s both healthy and satisfying? Look no further than this vegetarian lentil burger recipe.

Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them an ideal base for a meatless burger. These burgers are packed with rich flavors from aromatic spices and fresh veggies, all bound together with wholesome ingredients to create a patty that holds up beautifully on the grill or stovetop.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, these lentil burgers are easy to make and sure to impress. They are perfect for weeknight dinners, picnics, or even casual get-togethers, and pair wonderfully with your favorite burger fixings.

Ready to discover how to make these tasty lentil patties? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian lentil burger recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly nutritious — lentils provide a great protein punch without any meat, making it a perfect choice for vegetarians and vegans alike.

The combination of spices and fresh vegetables adds depth and texture, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

These burgers have a fantastic texture — firm enough to hold together but tender and moist inside. Plus, they’re versatile and customizable.

You can serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings or turn them into lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. This recipe is also budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Lastly, making lentil burgers is a great way to sneak more legumes into your diet, supporting heart health and digestion. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like exploring other plant-based dishes such as Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or the delightful Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried brown or green lentils (or 2.5 cups cooked lentils)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

Equipment

• Medium saucepan for cooking lentils
• Large mixing bowl
• Food processor or potato masher
• Grater (for carrot)
• Frying pan or skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet or plate for shaping patties

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils: Rinse 1 cup of dried lentils thoroughly. Place them in a saucepan with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons water. Stir and set aside for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. Grate the carrot: Using a fine grater, grate the carrot and add it to a large mixing bowl along with the cooked lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, and chopped parsley.
5. Mash the mixture: Using a food processor for a chunkier texture or a potato masher, pulse or mash the lentils and veggies until combined but still retaining some texture. This helps the patties hold together.
6. Add seasonings and binders: Stir in the flax egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until the mixture is evenly combined and holds together when pressed.
7. Form the patties: Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a firm patty about 3/4 inch thick. Place patties on a plate or baking sheet.
8. Cook the burgers: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through. Be gentle when flipping to avoid breaking.
9. Serve and enjoy: Place the cooked lentil burgers on buns or lettuce wraps and add your favorite toppings such as avocado, tomato slices, pickles, or vegan cheese. For extra flavor, spread some mustard or your favorite sauce.

Tips & Variations

“For perfectly shaped burgers, chill the patties in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up and reduces crumbling.”

• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and moisture.
• Spice it up: Experiment with curry powder, chili flakes, or fresh herbs like cilantro for different flavor profiles.
• Bake instead of fry: For a lighter option, bake the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Use canned lentils: If short on time, canned lentils work well — just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These lentil burgers are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic experience, place the patties on toasted whole-grain buns topped with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and a smear of vegan mayo or mustard.

Add slices of avocado or pickles for extra creaminess and tang.

For a low-carb option, wrap the burger in large butter lettuce leaves or collard greens. These burgers also pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or a crunchy slaw.

If you’re looking for more wholesome vegetarian dishes, be sure to check out the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or the comforting Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas.

Conclusion

Whipping up a batch of these vegetarian lentil burgers is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meatless meal. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, they suit a range of tastes and dietary preferences.

The use of lentils not only boosts the protein content but also adds a lovely texture and earthiness that pairs well with the spices and fresh vegetables.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these burgers offer a wholesome alternative to traditional meat patties without sacrificing taste. Plus, they’re a great gateway recipe to explore more plant-based cooking.

For more delicious ideas, don’t miss the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to elevate your meals. Enjoy your cooking adventure and happy eating!

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