These Lentil Banana Patties are a unique and delicious way to enjoy lentils, combining savory spices with a hint of sweetness from the banana. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, these patties are easy to make and packed with nutrition.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Lentils (preferably pre-cooked or canned for ease)
- 1 small Banana, mashed
- 1.5 cups Flour
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- Black Pepper, Cumin, Paprika, Salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- Liquid Oil for frying (such as vegetable oil or canola oil)
Instructions:
Prepare Lentils:
- If using dry lentils, rinse them thoroughly and cook according to package instructions until tender. If using canned lentils, drain and rinse well.
Mash and Mix: 2. In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Add the mashed banana and mix well to integrate.
Add Dry Ingredients: 3. To the lentil and banana mixture, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, flour, and spices (black pepper, cumin, paprika, and salt). Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick enough to hold its shape; if it’s too wet, add a little more flour.
Form Patties: 4. Heat the liquid oil in a frying pan over medium heat. While the oil is heating, form the lentil mixture into small patties.
Cook Patties: 5. Place the patties in the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Drain and Serve: 6. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
- These lentil patties can be served on their own with a dipping sauce like yogurt garlic sauce.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve in a sandwich or wrap with fresh greens and a tangy sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to prevent them from absorbing too much oil.
- For added texture, you can include finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots in the mixture.
- Adjust the spices to your taste preference, adding more cumin or paprika for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Bananas add a natural sweetness and provide potassium and vitamin B6.
- This dish is low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, making it a heart-healthy option.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan by using a plant-based yogurt sauce for dipping.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Storage:
- Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or on a stovetop skillet to retain their crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a creative and flavorful way to enjoy lentils, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
- Easy to make and versatile, these patties can be enjoyed in various ways.
- Packed with nutrition, they are a healthy and satisfying addition to your meal rotation.
Conclusion:
These Lentil Banana Patties are a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of lentils. The unique addition of banana provides a slight sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the spices and aromatics, creating a delightful vegetarian meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Give it a try and discover a new way to enjoy lentils!