Incredible Lentil Burgers Recipe (Vegan + Gluten Free)

Introduction

Welcome to today's episode with the off-grid vegan chef, where we're taking a break from imitation meats and embracing the hearty, wholesome goodness of a true veggie burger. Today, we're making incredibly delicious lentil burgers, a perfect treat for anyone craving a veggie burger that celebrates its ingredients without trying to be something else. Let's dive into the recipe.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of dry lentils
  • Salt (for boiling lentils)
  • 1 can of red beans
  • 1 cup of finely chopped Portobello mushrooms
  • 2 cloves of finely chopped garlic
  • 2 tablespoons of tahini
  • 1 and a half tablespoons of refined coconut oil (hardened in the fridge)
  • 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
  • Half a cup of masa flour (divided into two quarter-cup portions)
  • Olive oil (for forming patties and greasing the tray)
  • Seasonings for the patty (salt, pepper)
  • Chow cheese (or any preferred vegan cheese)
  • Burger toppings: vegan mayo, fresh greens, tomato slices, dill pickle slices, Dijon mustard, green onion

Preparation Steps

  1. Cook the Lentils: In a pot of boiling water seasoned with a little salt, add the dry lentils. Boil them until chewy, which should take about ten minutes. Strain and let them cool to room temperature.

  2. Mash the Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled lentils, red beans, chopped mushrooms, and garlic. Use a potato masher to mash these ingredients thoroughly.

  3. Add Tahini and Coconut Oil: Incorporate the tahini into the mixture, followed by the hardened coconut oil. Mash again after each addition.

  4. Season and Flour: Add smoked paprika, then gradually mix in the masa flour, mashing continuously until the mixture is well combined and thick.

  5. Form Patties: Use olive oil on your hands and the tray to prevent sticking. Form the mixture into hamburger patty shapes and place them on the oiled tray. This recipe should yield about eight large patties.

  6. Chill: Refrigerate the patties for 30 to 60 minutes to firm up.

  7. Cook: Season a patty with salt and pepper, then cook it in a hot, greased cast-iron skillet for 3-5 minutes per side. Add vegan cheese, cover, and cook until the cheese melts.

  8. Assemble the Burger: Dress up your burger with vegan mayo, greens, tomato, pickles, Dijon mustard, and green onion.

Conclusion

And there you have it, a finished lentil burger that's as nutritious as it is delicious. This lentil burger is a testament to the joys of simple, plant-based cooking, offering a satisfying bite that's packed with flavor and texture. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this lentil burger is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish and savor every bite of your creation.