I have been on a bit of a fritters kick with Chickpea Fritters, Chicken Fritters, Quinoa Patties, and Broccoli Fritters and this lentil version is such a great option in the mix. Lentils are rich in vegetarian protein and iron and are a really satisfying vegetarian dinner when baked into falafel-like patties. This easy toddler meal or baby-led weaning food is made without eggs or dairy and is easy to make gluten-free. And you can cook them in a pan on the stovetop, in the oven, or in an air fryer, so you can do what’s easiest for you on any given day. We love these Lentil Patties dipped into Cucumber Sauce, but they’re also delicious with tzatziki, hummus, or sour cream. (You may also like Vegetarian Meals for Kids, Slow Cooker Black Beans, Baby Pasta, or Quick Teriyaki Shrimp.)
Ingredients You Need
To make this lentil patties recipe you’ll need these ingredients on hand and ready to go. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Fully cooked lentils: Look for them in the produce section of your grocery store in a vacuum sealed package, or you can cook them from dry according to the directions on the back of the bag. Garlic: I like to add a fresh garlic clove to this recipe for flavor. You can also use garlic powder if you prefer. Cilantro, parsley, and fresh lemon: This trio makes the patties super flavorful. If you only have one, that is also fine! Flour: A little flour helps ensure that the mixture is the right consistency. I use all-purpose, but you can use a gluten-free all-purpose if you want to. Olive oil: If pan-frying, I like to use extra-virgin olive oil. If baking or air frying, I like to spray the tops with olive oil spray.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s an overview of how to make this lentil patties recipe. Scroll down to the bottom of the post for the full information, including the amounts and timing.
Serving Suggestions
We usually have these with dips like Cucumber Sauce and fruit, rice, and/or a simple veggie like Roasted Carrot Fries. You can also serve them on small slider buns as vegetarian burgers.
Best Tips for Success
Add more spices (such as oregano, chili pepper, or ground coriander) if desired to add more flavor. Add ¼ cup grated carrot or onion to the mixture to add veggies. Make larger lentil cakes or lentil burgers for a plant-based burger option. To make gluten-free, use gluten-free cup for cup flour or chickpea flour. Cook in an air fryer at 375 degrees F for 10-12 minutes. I like to spray the tops of each patty with olive oil spray. Bake in the oven, placing the patties on parchment paper, at 375 degrees F for 18-22 minutes. Find more go-to dairy-free recipes for kids.
I’d love to hear what you think of the recipe so please comment below to share!
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Quick Lentil Sauce for Pasta
Easy Red Lentil Soup
One-Pot Lentils and Rice
This post was first published May 2020.
