Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties
Highlighted under: Balanced Collection
When I discovered the magic of lentils, I knew I had to create a recipe that would celebrate their incredible flavor and texture. These Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties have become a go-to favorite in my kitchen. I love how the spices blend seamlessly with the lentils, resulting in a deliciously satisfying bite. They're perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, and I can whip them up in no time. Give them a try—I'm sure you'll adore these sliders just as much as I do!
As I perfected my recipe for sliders with spicy lentil patties, I experimented with different spices to find the right balance. The key was to soak the lentils before cooking, which not only shortens the cooking time but also enhances the flavor. Each bite bursts with warmth from cumin and chili powder that really brings these patties to life.
I also played around with various toppings, but I found that a dollop of creamy avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro make the perfect finishing touch. These sliders are not just delicious; they are packed with nutrition.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed lentil patties with a kick of spice
- Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
- Healthy, vegetarian option that everyone will enjoy
The Importance of Lentils
Lentils are not only a powerhouse of nutrition but also the heart of these sliders. They offer a wonderful earthy flavor and a slightly nutty taste that complements the spices beautifully. When cooked properly, lentils should be tender yet firm, providing the perfect texture for patties. Avoid overcooking them, as mushy lentils will lead to a patty that lacks structure and can fall apart during cooking.
These tiny legumes are high in protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice for a meatless meal. The addition of spices like cumin and chili powder elevates the flavor profile, creating a complex taste that makes the patties deliciously satisfying. For those watching their carbohydrate intake, lentils are a great alternative, packed with nutrients and low in calories.
Crafting Perfect Patties
When forming the patties, aim for uniformity in size for even cooking. A tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop works perfectly to portion out the mixture. You want each patty to be about the size of the slider bun but not too thick, or they'll take longer to cook and may not heat through evenly. Aim for patties that are roughly half an inch thick for that ideal crispy exterior and soft center.
Make sure your skillet is hot but not smoking before adding the patties; medium heat is best. A good test is to sprinkle a drop of water in the pan—if it dances and evaporates, you’re ready to go. Cook the patties until they develop golden edges, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent burning.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your sliders:
Spicy Lentil Patties
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 2 cups water
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 4 slider buns
- Sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for topping
Once you have everything ready, you're all set to cook!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your sliders:
Cook the Lentils
In a pot, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.
Prepare the Patties
In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils with a fork. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
Form and Cook the Patties
Shape the mixture into small patties. In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Assemble the Sliders
Toast the slider buns and place a patty on each. Top with sliced avocado and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Your sliders are now ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne to the patties. You can also grill the patties for a smoky touch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These sliders can be made ahead of time, which makes them ideal for meal prep. Once the lentil patties are cooked and cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Alternatively, you can freeze cooked patties for up to three months. Just ensure they are separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer a crispier exterior, you can also pan-fry them briefly on medium heat with a bit of oil for 2-3 minutes per side.
Serving Suggestions
While sliced avocado and cilantro are a delightful topping, feel free to experiment with other toppings for your sliders. Try adding fresh tomato slices, pickled onions for a tangy bite, or spicy aioli for an extra kick. These add-ons not only enhance the flavor but also add visual appeal to your dish.
Additionally, consider serving these sliders with a side of homemade sweet potato fries or a refreshing salad. The contrast in flavors and textures not only complements the sliders but can elevate your entire meal experience, making it feel more complete and satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
→ Are these sliders suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties and cook them directly from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I serve with these sliders?
They pair wonderfully with a side salad or sweet potato fries.
→ Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture or a vegan egg substitute.
Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties
When I discovered the magic of lentils, I knew I had to create a recipe that would celebrate their incredible flavor and texture. These Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties have become a go-to favorite in my kitchen. I love how the spices blend seamlessly with the lentils, resulting in a deliciously satisfying bite. They're perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, and I can whip them up in no time. Give them a try—I'm sure you'll adore these sliders just as much as I do!
Created by: Helena Whitby
Recipe Type: Balanced Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Spicy Lentil Patties
- 1 cup dried lentils
- 2 cups water
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 4 slider buns
- Sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for topping
How-To Steps
In a pot, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.
In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils with a fork. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small patties. In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Toast the slider buns and place a patty on each. Top with sliced avocado and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne to the patties. You can also grill the patties for a smoky touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g