Lightly Spiced Red Lentil Patties

Name: Lightly Spiced Red Lentil Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils, rinsed; 3 cups water; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Light Lunch Recipes

I love making these lightly spiced red lentil patties for a healthy snack or a quick meal. They are packed with flavor and a great way to use lentils in an unexpected form. The spices give it just the right kick, while the texture remains tender and satisfying. Whether you eat them alone or with a dipping sauce, these patties are sure to be a hit. Plus, they come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. You’re going to want to make these again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-19T17:54:23.025Z

When I first tried making these lentil patties, I was amazed at how simple they were to prepare yet how flavorful they turned out. After experimenting with different spices, I found the combination of cumin, coriander, and a hint of chili powder created just the right balance. I recommend letting the lentil mixture sit for a few minutes before forming the patties, as this helps them hold together better during cooking.

The first time I served these, I paired them with a tangy yogurt sauce, and it was a game changer! The freshness of the sauce complemented the warm spices beautifully. Now, I often double the recipe to ensure there are leftovers for lunch the next day.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A nutritious twist on traditional patties packed with protein.
Bright, aromatic spices that take your taste buds on a delightful journey.
Versatile enough to be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish.

      

Mastering the Cooking Process

Cooking the lentils properly is crucial to achieving the right texture for your patties. When simmering them, keep an eye on the water level. If it evaporates too quickly, the lentils could burn. I suggest checking them after 10 minutes to ensure they aren't overcooked; they should be tender yet hold their shape when mashed.

Once your lentils are cooked and slightly cooled, the key is to mash them just enough to maintain some chunkiness. This texture allows the patties to stay together during cooking while still providing a satisfying mouthfeel. Over-mashing can lead to a paste, which won't yield crispy edges.

Flavor Balancing with Spices

The spices in this recipe play a pivotal role in flavor, and adjusting them can make a significant difference. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or increasing the chili powder. For a more aromatic touch, additional cumin can enhance the earthiness of the lentils. Always taste your mixture before forming patties to ensure the spice levels meet your preferences.

Using fresh herbs like parsley not only brightens the patties but also adds a layer of freshness. If parsley isn't available, cilantro or green onions can serve as excellent substitutes, infusing the dish with new flavors. Just keep in mind that different herbs will alter the overall profile of your patties, so choose based on your favorite tastes.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

These patties shine when served warm, but they also hold up well for meal prep. If you plan to store leftovers, make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil to regain their crispiness.

For serving, I love pairing these patties with a simple yogurt sauce made from plain yogurt mixed with lemon juice, salt, and a sprinkle of cumin. This cooling sauce contrasts beautifully with the spices in the patties. Additionally, consider serving them on a bed of fresh greens or in a pita for a heartier meal.

Ingredients

Patties

1 cup red lentils, rinsed
3 cups water
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Cook the Lentils

In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the lentils are tender and most of the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Prepare the Mixture

Mash the lentils with a fork or potato masher until slightly chunky. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, pepper, parsley, and breadcrumbs. Mix until well combined.

Form Patties

With your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Make sure they are packed tightly so they hold their shape during cooking.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the patties in batches and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve

Serve warm with a yogurt sauce or your favorite dip. Enjoy your delicious lightly spiced red lentil patties!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some grated carrot or zucchini to the lentil mixture. This not only enhances the taste but also increases the nutritional value of the patties.

Gluten-Free Options

If you're looking to make these patties gluten-free, you can easily substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or ground oats. Both options will help bind the mixture without compromising the texture. Just be mindful that almond flour may require a slightly different moisture balance, so adjust the dry ingredients accordingly if the mixture feels too wet.

Another excellent binding option is using mashed sweet potatoes or pumpkin. This not only keeps the patties gluten-free but also adds a hint of sweetness that complements the spices well. Aim to add about 1/2 cup of the mashed vegetable to the lentil mixture, adjusting breadcrumbs as needed.

Experimenting with Fillings

Feel free to get creative with additional fillings in your patties. Chopped spinach, grated carrot, or even finely diced bell peppers can add more nutrients and flavor. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from these veggies before mixing them in, as too much liquid can make the patties difficult to form.

For those who enjoy a cheesy flavor, incorporating crumbled feta or shredded cheese can elevate these lentil patties. Just a small amount mixed into the batter can bring a creamy texture and rich taste, but be cautious not to add too much, as it might affect the binding.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these patties?

Yes, these patties freeze well! Just be sure to layer them between parchment paper before placing them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with lentil patties?

They go well with a variety of dips such as yogurt sauce, hummus, or a fresh salsa!

→ Can I make them in the oven instead?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ Are these patties gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely for a gluten-free version.