These Gluten-Free Lentil and Cheese Muffins are a nourishing and versatile treat that you can enjoy any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a nutritious snack, or a savory side dish, these muffins are packed with flavor and essential nutrients. The combination of lentils, cheese, and fresh parsley creates a delightful taste, while the addition of black cumin seeds and chili pepper flakes adds a unique aromatic and spicy touch.
The muffins are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With their crispy exterior and tender, cheesy interior, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. The lentils provide a great source of protein and fiber, making these muffins a healthy and satisfying option. Plus, they are gluten-free, vegetarian, and can be adapted to be dairy-free if needed. Enjoy them warm from the oven or at room temperature for a delicious and wholesome treat.
RECIPE:
Ingredients:
For the Muffins:
- 1 glass (170 g) green or brown lentils
- 3 large eggs
- Half a tea glass (50 ml) olive oil
- 1 tea glass (100 ml) plain yogurt
- 1 packet (10 g) gluten-free baking powder
- 1 tablespoon black cumin seeds, toasted and ground
- 1 teaspoon chili pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup grated cheese of your choice (cheddar, feta, or a combination)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
- Sunflower seeds (optional, for topping)
Directions:
- Soak Lentils:
- Rinse lentils thoroughly and soak in cold water overnight. Drain and rinse well before use.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together gluten-free baking powder, ground black cumin, chili pepper flakes, and salt.
- Create the Batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in drained lentils, grated cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Prepare Muffin Tin:
- Grease a muffin tin with olive oil or line with paper liners.
- Bake:
- Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Sprinkle with sunflower seeds, if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Soaking Time: Overnight | Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (plus soaking time)
Kcal: 200 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 muffins
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
- Perfect for breakfast with a dollop of yogurt or a spread of avocado.
- Serve as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, roast the lentils before soaking.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties and herbs to customize the taste.
- For a slightly sweeter muffin, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the batter.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Packed with protein from lentils and eggs for sustained energy.
- Rich in fiber from lentils, promoting digestive health.
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil, beneficial for heart health.
- Offers a good source of calcium from cheese.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free: Suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-free: Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based yogurt and cheese alternatives.
- Vegetarian: Perfect for vegetarians.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave before serving.
- These muffins can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before enjoying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These muffins are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the benefits of lentils. They are packed with flavor, satisfying, and perfect for those following a gluten-free diet.
- The combination of lentils, cheese, and herbs creates a harmonious blend that will leave you wanting more.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy mornings or as a grab-and-go snack.
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or as a healthy snack in between meals.
Potential Variations and Substitutions:
- Vegetable additions: Incorporate grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a kick.
- Flavor enhancements: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill.
- Nutty goodness: Add chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture and crunch.
- Sweet twist: For a sweeter muffin, add a touch of honey or maple syrup and reduce the chili pepper flakes.
Conclusion: These Gluten-Free Lentil and Cheese Muffins are a nourishing and versatile treat that will satisfy your cravings while providing essential nutrients. Perfect for any time of the day, they are easy to make, delicious, and packed with protein and fiber. Try them out and enjoy the combination of lentils, cheese, and fresh herbs in every bite. Happy baking!
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a nutritious snack, or a savory side dish, these muffins are sure to impress. The ease of preparation and the delightful flavors make them a go-to recipe for busy days or when you want to enjoy a healthy and satisfying treat. So why not give these muffins a try and see for yourself how delicious and versatile they are? Enjoy!