Lentil and Oat Patties are a nutritious and delicious option for those seeking a healthy meal or snack. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, these patties are not only satisfying but also versatile. They can be served as a Dinner or Lunch even as a filling in burgers or wraps. Whether you are a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, lentil and oat patties are an excellent choice.
Lentil and Oat Patties: Easy and Delicious Recipes
If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, look no further than lentil and oat patties! These little gems are packed with nutrients, making them a great option for everyone, whether you're a busy parent, a student, or anyone in between. Let’s dive into what makes Dinner or Lunch so special and how you can whip them up in your kitchen.
What is in Lentil and Oat Patties?
Creating these delicious lentil and oat patties is simple, thanks to a few wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lentils: The primary ingredient, rich in plant-based protein and fiber.
- Boiling Water for Soaking: This helps activate the nutrients in the lentils, making them easier to blend.
- Oats: Ground into flour, oats are used to bind the mixture and add a chewy texture to the patties.
- Carrot: Grated for natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- Onion: Chopped for aromatic flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Minced to provide a depth of flavor and aroma.
- Olive Oil: Used for frying, giving the patties a crispy exterior.
- Dried Oregano: For a hint of Italian flavor.
- Ground Coriander & Ground Cumin: These spices add warmth and earthiness to the patties.
- Salt to Taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: A handful, chopped, to add brightness and freshness.
Key Takeaways
- Health Benefits: Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Combined with oats, they make for a filling and nutritious meal option, perfect for those looking to reduce meat intake or follow a vegetarian diet.
- Make Ahead and Storage Tips: The patties can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat before serving!
Health Benefits
Lentil and oat patties are a powerhouse of health benefits:
- High in Protein: Lentils provide an excellent source of plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in Fiber: Both lentils and oats are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, these patties support overall health.
- Heart Health: The combination of lentils, oats, and olive oil contributes to heart health, reducing cholesterol levels and promoting cardiovascular wellbeing.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best aspects of lentil and oat patties is that they are perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips to make your cooking experience easier:
- Make-Ahead: Prepare a large batch on the weekend. Shape the patties and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
- Freezing: To keep them longer, freeze the uncooked patties, layered between parchment paper in an airtight bag. They’ll last for up to three months.
- Thawing: When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then cook as directed.
What to Serve with Lentil and Oat Patties
These patties are versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:
- Salads: Pair with a fresh green salad, tossed with vinaigrette for a light meal.
- Wraps: Serve them in a whole-grain pita or lettuce wrap with your favorite veggies and sauces.
- Grains: Complement with quinoa or brown rice for a filling and nutritious dinner.
- Sauces: Dip in yogurt sauce, tahini, or homemade salsa for an added flavor boost.
Recommended Tools to Make This Recipe
Equip your kitchen with these handy tools to make the cooking process seamless:
- Food Processor: To grind the oats and mix all ingredients quickly.
- Grater: Essential for preparing the grated carrots.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients effortlessly.
- Non-Stick Skillet: Ideal for frying the patties and ensuring they develop a lovely golden crust.
Variations
- Spicy Lentil and Oat Patties: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red chili flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can adjust the level of heat according to your preference.
- Herbed Patties: Incorporate herbs like thyme, basil, or dill for different flavor profiles. Fresh herbs can brighten the overall taste and make the patties even more aromatic.
- Cheesy Patties: Mix in some grated cheese, such as feta, mozzarella, or cheddar, for extra creaminess and flavor. This can also help bind the mixture together.
- Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, or artichoke hearts to the mixture for a Mediterranean flair. Pair with tahini or garlic sauce for serving.
- Vegetable Medley: Customize your patties by adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. These additions can boost the nutrient content and add more texture.
- Asian-Inspired Patties: Incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil into the mixture and serve with a spicy sesame dipping sauce or sweet chili sauce.
- Nutty Variations: Add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds (like walnuts or sunflower seeds) for added crunch and nutritional benefits.
Serving Suggestions
- With Dipping Sauce: Serve your patties with a variety of dipping sauces like tzatziki, hummus, or avocado cilantro cream for an extra layer of flavor.
- Burger Style: Use them as burger patties in whole grain buns or lettuce wraps. Top with fresh greens, tomatoes, pickles, and your favorite condiment!
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the patties over a bed of mixed greens, quinoa, or brown rice, topped with your favorite dressing for a nutritious bowl meal.
- Tacos: Swap out your regular taco filling with smashed or whole lentil and oat patties. Add avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
- Breakfast Delight: Serve them as a savory breakfast option. Top with a poached egg and a sprinkle of sriracha for a satisfying start to the day.
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerating: After cooking, let the lentil and oat patties cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze uncooked patties. Shape the patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This allows you to pull out just what you need later.
- Reheating: Thaw any frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To reheat, pan-fry or bake them until heated through, ensuring they regain their crispy texture.
Helpful Tips
- Soak the Lentils: Always soak the lentils in boiling water for at least 30 minutes. This will help soften them and make blending easier.
- Adjust Texture: If the mixture feels too wet or loose, add more oats or oat flour gradually until you achieve a shapeable consistency. Conversely, if it’s too dry, add a little water or an egg to bind the mixture.
- Frying: Use a good quality non-stick skillet to prevent the patties from sticking. If using olive oil, keep the heat at a medium setting to avoid burning the patties.
- Taste Test: Before frying all the patties, fry a small test patty to check seasoning. Adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Serve Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, serve patties fresh from the pan. However, they store well as leftovers and can be reheated.
Lentil and Oat Patties are a wonderful addition to any healthy diet. They are easy to prepare, loaded with nutrients, and incredibly versatile. Whether you want to prepare a batch in advance or serve them as a quick weeknight Dinner or Lunch, these patties will deliver a satisfying and delightful meal. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy crafting these delicious lentil and oat patties in your kitchen.
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