Lentil Burger Recipe

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Lentil Burger Recipe

Indulge in the hearty and flavorful goodness of our Lentil Burger Recipe! This nutritious and filling burger combines the earthy taste of lentils, the sweetness of onions, and the savory flavor of spices, all wrapped up in a crispy whole-grain bun.

Ingredients:
  1. 1 large shallot
  2. 2 cloves garlic
  3. ¼ cup Italian parsley leaves
  4. 2 Fresno chili, stems removed, roughly chopped (optional, adjust spice level)
  5. 1½ tsp ground cumin
  6. 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
  7. Fresh cracked black pepper to taste
  8. ⅓ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  9. 1 large carrot, shredded
  10. 1 large egg
  11. 2 cans lentils (15 oz each, about 3½ cups), rinsed, drained, and patted dry (divided)
  12. 4 oz goat cheese (or feta), crumbled
  13. 5.3 oz plain Greek yogurt (one container or generous ½ cup, preferably 5% fat)
  14. 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  15. ½ tbsp honey
  16.  olive oil, for cooking the burgers
  17. 6 burger buns or pitas
  18. 6 slices tomato
  19. 3 handfuls arugula
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
Finely dice the shallot and mince the garlic.
Place parsley, Fresno chili, cumin, ½ tsp kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper into a food processor. Add breadcrumbs, shredded carrot, egg, and 1½ cups of lentils. Pulse until a chunky paste forms.
Combine:
Transfer the paste into a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining lentils and crumbled goat cheese. Mix well to combine.
Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a burger patty, about ½-inch thick.
Cook the Patties:
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or olive oil. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt.
Assemble the Burgers:
Toast the buns or pitas if desired. Spread the yogurt sauce on the base of each bun. Layer with arugula, a lentil patty, a slice of tomato, and more sauce. Top with the other half of the bun.

Tips:

1. Use red or green lentils: Both types of lentils work well in this recipe, but red lentils will give a slightly sweeter flavor.
2. Don’t overprocess the lentils: Mix the lentils with the other ingredients just until combined to prevent a dense patty.
3. Add some crunch with chopped veggies: Mix in some chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
4. Experiment with different spices: Try adding some cumin, paprika, or chili powder to give the burger a unique flavor.
5. Make ahead for a quick dinner: Prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for a quick and easy dinner.

Health Benefits:

1. Supports Healthy Heart: The fiber, potassium, and folate in lentils may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. May Help Regulate Blood Sugar: The fiber and complex carbohydrates in lentils may help slow down the absorption of sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
3. Supports Healthy Gut Bacteria: Lentils contain prebiotic fiber, which can help support the growth of healthy gut bacteria.

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