Lentil and banana patties are an intriguing, plant-based twist on traditional patties. The combination of lentils, bananas, and spices results in a surprisingly delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking for a nutritious, protein-rich meal. The lentils provide a solid foundation of protein and fiber, while the banana adds a subtle sweetness and moist texture, making these patties unique. Whether you fry or bake them, these patties make for a great appetizer, side dish, or even the main event when paired with a fresh salad or served in a burger bun.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- Lentils: 2 cups (400 g) green or brown lentils (flat lentils work best)
- Banana: 1 small, ripe
- Bread Flour: 3 tablespoons (24 g)
- Breadcrumbs: 1.5 cups (150 g)
- Onion: 1 small, grated and strained
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Cumin: to taste
- Paprika: to taste
- Thyme: to taste
- Salt: to taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) (for brushing)
- Liquid Oil: for frying or baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils
- Rinse and Cook the Lentils:
- Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are soft but still holding their shape. Drain and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Pattie Mixture
- Mash the Banana:
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth. The banana adds moisture and sweetness, helping to bind the mixture together.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooled lentils to the mashed banana, followed by the grated onion (make sure to strain out excess liquid), minced garlic, flour, and breadcrumbs. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Season:
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and thyme. Adjust the spices to your taste preference. These spices will bring a robust flavor profile to the patties.
- Form the Patties:
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties or discs, about the size of your palm. You should be able to form around 8-10 patties, depending on size.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Option 1: Frying
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat enough liquid oil in a skillet over medium heat to shallow fry the patties. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- Fry the Patties:
- Carefully place the patties into the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Option 2: Baking
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the Patties with Olive Oil:
- Lightly brush each patty with olive oil on both sides to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake the Patties:
- Place the patties on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and firm.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the Patties:
- Serve the lentil and banana patties warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These patties can be enjoyed on their own with a dipping sauce or as part of a burger, sandwich, or salad.
Cooking Tips
- Balance of Moisture:
- Make sure the lentils are fully drained before mixing them with the banana and other ingredients. Excess moisture could make the mixture too wet and difficult to form into patties. If this happens, you can add more breadcrumbs or flour to bind the mixture.
- Spice Level:
- If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture for some extra kick.
- Freezing:
- These patties freeze well. You can prepare them ahead of time, form the patties, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and cook as desired.
- Customize the Flavor:
- You can switch up the spices according to your taste. For a more Mediterranean flavor, consider adding herbs like oregano and basil. For an Indian twist, you could incorporate garam masala or curry powder.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – based on 10 patties)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Sugars: 2 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact measurements and ingredients used.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of lentils?
Yes, you can use different varieties of lentils, such as red or yellow lentils, but note that the texture will change. Green or brown lentils hold their shape better and provide a firmer texture, which is ideal for patties.
2. What can I serve with these patties?
These lentil and banana patties go well with a side of fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce such as tahini, tzatziki, or a spicy yogurt-based sauce.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, to make these patties gluten-free, you can replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use ground oats. Ensure the bread flour is also replaced with a gluten-free alternative, such as chickpea flour.
4. Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and the patties will still turn out crispy. Just make sure to brush them with oil before baking to achieve a nice golden color.
5. How long do these patties last in the fridge?
You can store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
Lentil and banana patties are a delightful and healthy plant-based alternative to traditional meat patties. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of nutrients, making them not only delicious but also highly nutritious. The combination of lentils and banana may sound unusual, but it brings a perfect balance of savory and subtle sweetness. Whether you choose to fry or bake them, these patties are sure to impress as a versatile snack, main dish, or side. Feel free to customize the flavors to suit your taste, and enjoy these wholesome, crispy treats!