Vegan Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers are the ultimate high-protein, plant-based burgers. They’re perfect for any occasion, from picnics to BBQs, and are made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This foolproof recipe is not only kid-friendly but also offers an oil-free option and is gluten-free. Enjoy these delicious lentil burgers that are easy to whip up and packed with flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these burgers ready in no time.
- Affordable Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these burgers are budget-friendly and accessible.
- High Protein: Packed with lentils, each burger provides a satisfying protein boost.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them in a bun, on a salad, or even as a side with roasted veggies.
- Kid-Friendly: These burgers appeal to both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Nonstick skillet (if pan-frying)
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: This tool helps combine ingredients quickly to achieve the perfect texture for your burgers.
- Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet allows for even cooking when baking your lentil patties.
- Nonstick skillet: Ideal for frying the patties without sticking, ensuring they come out golden and crispy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dried red lentils
- 2 large garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 large shallot (or 1 small onion, small dice (about 1/3 cup))
- 1/3 cup grated carrots (about 3 small)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Neutral flavored cooking oil (for pan frying (optional))
How to Make Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Soak the Lentils
Soak the lentils in enough water to cover them by about 2 inches for two hours. After soaking, rinse and drain thoroughly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Food Processor
Place all ingredients into a food processor:
Add the drained lentils,
minced garlic,
diced shallot,
grated carrots,
tomato paste,
chopped cilantro,
salt,
black pepper.
Pulse until well combined and the mixture holds together, scraping down the sides of the canister as needed.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Scoop out about ¼ cup of the mixture at a time. Shape it into patties that are approximately ½ inch thick.
Step 5: Bake Option
For baking: Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, flip them over, then bake for another 10 minutes or until they become crispy on both sides.
Step 6: Pan-Fry Option
For frying: Heat enough oil in a nonstick skillet to reach halfway up the sides of the patties. Cook each patty for about 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Step 7: Serve Your Burgers
Serve your delicious Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers with your choice of buns and toppings or alongside a fresh side salad or oven-roasted potatoes. Enjoy!
How to Serve Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
These Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers are versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
In a Bun
- Classic Burger: Place the lentil burger in a toasted bun and add your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or vegan mayo.
- Lettuce Wrap: For a low-carb option, wrap the burger in crisp lettuce leaves instead of using bread.
- Slider Style: Shape smaller patties for kid-friendly sliders. Serve with mini buns and colorful toppings.
With Toppings
- Fresh Veggies: Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, or pickles on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Avocado Cream: Spread mashed avocado or a creamy avocado sauce for a rich texture.
- Spicy Salsa: Top with fresh salsa or pico de gallo for a zesty kick.
On the Side
- Side Salad: Pair your burgers with a mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Oven Roasted Potatoes: Serve alongside crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs for a hearty side.
How to Perfect Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
Making the perfect Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers is simple when you follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and shallots will enhance the flavor of your burgers significantly.
- Monitor Consistency: Ensure the mixture holds together well; if it’s too dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra flavor boost.
- Experiment with Binders: If you need more stability, consider adding ground oats or breadcrumbs to the mixture.
- Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when pan-frying to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Best Side Dishes for Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
Pairing side dishes with your Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, these fries make a perfect match with lentil burgers.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing crunchy slaw adds texture and balances out the savory flavors of the burger.
- Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad complements the protein-packed burger nicely.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies provide smoky flavors that pair well with lentils.
- Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich chickpea salad offers additional texture and flavor diversity.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes to your meal; grill it or boil it for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best outcome.
- Not soaking lentils properly – Failing to soak the lentils may result in a dry texture. Always soak them for at least two hours to ensure they cook evenly and blend well.
- Over-processing the mixture – Blending the ingredients too much can lead to a paste rather than a chunky burger mix. Pulse just until combined for the perfect texture.
- Ignoring seasoning – Skipping or skimping on salt and spices can make your burgers bland. Taste the mixture before forming patties and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Making patties too thick – Thick patties may not cook through properly. Keep them about ½ inch thick for even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Crowding the pan – Cooking too many patties at once can lower the skillet temperature, leading to soggy burgers. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover burgers in an airtight container.
- They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Freezing Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
- Place cooked burgers in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
- They stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and reheat burgers for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
- Stovetop – Sauté in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes per side until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers that might help you.
Can I make Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any wheat products.
What toppings go well with Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers?
You can serve these burgers with avocado, lettuce, tomato, or your favorite vegan sauces like tahini or hummus.
How can I customize my Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers?
Feel free to add spices like cumin or smoked paprika, or mix in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I meal prep these Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and form patties when needed, or cook and freeze them for later use.
Final Thoughts
These Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers are not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or side dishes to suit your taste. They are perfect for family dinners, picnics, or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to give this healthy recipe a try!
Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers
Easy 6-Ingredient Lentil Burgers are a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying plant-based option that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or meal prep, these burgers are made with simple pantry ingredients and are packed with protein. Their versatility allows you to serve them in various ways—whether in a bun, as a salad topping, or as a side dish with roasted veggies. Plus, they are kid-friendly and can be made oil-free and gluten-free. With just 10 minutes of prep time and quick cooking options, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups dried red lentils
- 2 large garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 large shallot (diced)
- 1/3 cup grated carrots
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Neutral flavored cooking oil (for pan frying – optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Soak the lentils in water for at least two hours; rinse and drain.
- In a food processor, combine soaked lentils, garlic, shallot, carrots, tomato paste, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well mixed.
- Shape the mixture into patties about ½ inch thick.
- For baking: Place patties on the baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes total (flipping halfway).
- For frying: Heat oil in a skillet and cook patties for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
