Quinoa Lentil Burger
If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, nutritious, and satisfying plant-based burger, look no further than this Quinoa Lentil Burger. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, this burger is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a wholesome addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re a full-time vegetarian, a flexitarian, or simply someone who enjoys a good veggie burger, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about the Quinoa Lentil Burger. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it on a bun, atop a salad, or even crumbled into a grain bowl. The combination of quinoa and lentils creates a deliciously hearty texture that truly satisfies. Plus, with the addition of spices and green chilies, every bite is bursting with flavor! And let’s be honest, there’s something incredibly rewarding about making your own burgers at home. You get to control the ingredients, and there’s no mystery about what’s in your food.
Ingredient List
To make the perfect Quinoa Lentil Burger, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup brown lentils, cooked and drained
- 4 ounces diced green chilies, canned
- 1/3 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup white whole wheat flour or whole wheat flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup whole wheat panko bread crumbs or whole grain bread crumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 teaspoons honey
Must-Have Equipment
Before you get started, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
- Frying pan: To cook the burgers to crispy perfection.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula: To flip the burgers with ease.
- Baking sheet (optional): If you choose to bake the burgers instead of frying them.
Quinoa Lentil Burger: How It’s Done
Now, let’s dive into the steps for creating your delicious Quinoa Lentil Burger.
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until translucent and fragrant. This step will bring out the natural sweetness of the onions.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, brown lentils, sautéed red onion, diced green chilies, rolled oats, white whole wheat flour, cornstarch, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Once mixed, use your hands to form the mixture into burger patties. You should be able to make about 6-8 patties, depending on your desired size.
Step 4: Cook the Burgers
In the same frying pan, add another teaspoon of olive oil. Once heated, place the patties in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your Quinoa Lentil Burgers on whole grain buns with your choice of toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, or avocado. You can also spread some Dijon mustard and drizzle honey for extra flavor before digging in.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
If you want to customize your Quinoa Lentil Burger even further, consider these health-conscious tweaks:
- Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
- Add in some grated carrots or zucchini for added veggies and moisture.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
- Experiment with spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
When testing this recipe, I found that the texture is key. If your mixture feels too wet, add a bit more flour or oats to help it bind. Conversely, if it feels too dry, a splash of water or vegetable broth can help bring it together. Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on your stove, so keep an eye on the burgers to avoid burning.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
These Quinoa Lentil Burgers are perfect for meal prep! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as instructed. You can also reheat cooked burgers in the oven or pan until heated through.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I bake these burgers instead of frying them?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and firm.
What can I serve with Quinoa Lentil Burgers?
These burgers pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or sweet potato fries. You can also serve them atop a bed of greens for a lighter option.
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture and form the patties in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a day or freeze them for later use.
Do I have to use green chilies?
No, you can skip the green chilies if you prefer a milder flavor, or substitute with other ingredients like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for some heat.
Looking for more delicious recipes that feature quinoa? Check out these tasty options:
The Last Word
Creating your own Quinoa Lentil Burgers is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. It’s a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade cooking with this Quinoa Lentil Burger recipe!
Quinoa Lentil Burger
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until translucent and fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, brown lentils, sautéed red onion, diced green chilies, rolled oats, white whole wheat flour, cornstarch, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Use your hands to form the mixture into burger patties. You should be able to make about 6-8 patties, depending on your desired size.
- In the same frying pan, add another teaspoon of olive oil. Once heated, place the patties in the pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve your Quinoa Lentil Burgers on whole grain buns with your choice of toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, or avocado. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the flour or oats if the mixture feels too wet or dry.
- You can bake the patties instead of frying if preferred.
- Store uncooked patties in the freezer for up to 3 months.
