Ingredients

For the Patties:

• Cabbage: 300g (about 11 oz), finely shredded
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Parsley: 15g (a small handful), chopped
• Lentils: 100g (about 4 oz), cooked and drained
• Water: 2 oz (1/2 cup), for steaming the cabbage
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
• Curry powder: 1 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Dry garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Whole wheat flour: 1/2 cup
• Yogurt: 3 tablespoons, for serving

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or other herbs for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Lentils

1. Cook the Lentils: Start by cooking the lentils in a saucepan with water. Bring them to a boil and simmer for about 15 minutes or until they are soft but not mushy. Drain the lentils and set them aside to cool.
2. Shred the Cabbage: While the lentils are cooking, finely shred the cabbage. Use a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer to get thin slices.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure the garlic doesn’t burn.
2. Add the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir everything together and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage softens and begins to brown slightly.
3. Season the Mixture: Sprinkle in the curry powder, paprika, dry garlic powder, and salt. Stir well to ensure the cabbage is evenly coated with the spices. Add 2 tablespoons of water to help steam the cabbage and cook it through. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Mix the Lentils and Parsley: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed cabbage mixture, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
2. Add Flour: Add 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour to the mixture and stir until it starts to come together. You may need to add a little extra flour if the mixture is too wet, but it should be thick enough to form into patties without falling apart.

Step 4: Form the Patties

1. Shape the Patties: Take small portions of the mixture and form them into patties, roughly the size of a golf ball, and flatten them slightly with your palms. If the mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier.
2. Cook the Patties: Heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan and fry the patties in batches, cooking each side for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure each patty cooks evenly. Once they are cooked, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Yogurt Sauce

1. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the yogurt with a pinch of salt and, if desired, a little extra paprika or fresh herbs. Stir to combine. The yogurt sauce will add a creamy, tangy contrast to the savory patties.

Step 6: Serve

1. Plate the Patties: Arrange the golden, crispy patties on a serving plate. Drizzle or serve the yogurt sauce on the side for dipping.
2. Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 2 patties (based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Sugars: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of lentil?

Yes, you can use any type of lentil for this recipe. Green or brown lentils work best as they hold their shape when cooked. Red lentils tend to break down more easily but can still be used if you prefer a softer texture.

2. Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance. Once formed, you can refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, or freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing, and store them in an airtight container.

3. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake these patties for a healthier version. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

4. What can I serve with these patties?

These patties are delicious served with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or in a pita bread wrap with extra yogurt sauce. They also pair well with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Tips for Making Perfect Cabbage and Lentil Patties

1. Avoid Overcooking the Cabbage: When sautéing the cabbage, make sure it doesn’t get too soft. You want it to retain a bit of texture for added bite in the patties.
2. Adjust Spices to Your Taste: The curry and paprika give the patties a lovely flavor, but feel free to adjust the spices to suit your preferences. Add more curry for a spicier kick or throw in some cumin for a different layer of flavor.
3. Bind with Flour: If your mixture feels too wet, add extra flour, but be careful not to overdo it, as too much flour can make the patties dense.
4. Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies to the filling if you like. Grated zucchini or spinach can be a great addition for extra nutrients.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be easily reheated in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 2-3 months. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry or bake them straight from the freezer.

Conclusion

These Cabbage and Lentil Patties with Yogurt Sauce are a healthy, satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in many ways. Packed with fiber, protein, and vegetables, they offer a nutritious option for anyone looking for a meatless meal that’s still hearty and flavorful. With the added yogurt sauce, they become even more delicious and versatile. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a quick lunch, or as a snack, these patties are sure to be a hit!