These Indian spiced lentil burgers with cilantro chutney are a flavorful, plant-based alternative to traditional burgers. The savory spices combined with the refreshing chutney create a delightful taste experience that’s perfect for any meal. Serve them on hamburger buns with a dollop of Greek yogurt, crisp cucumber slices, and fresh lettuce leaves for a satisfying and delicious dish.
Photos of Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers with Cilantro Chutney Recipe
Some of the ingredients in this recipe may not be commonly found in every kitchen. The red lentils, cilantro, jalapeno pepper, ground turmeric, ground coriander, and ginger root are essential for achieving the authentic flavors of these lentil burgers. Make sure to check your supermarket for these key items.
Ingredients For Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers With Cilantro Chutney
Cilantro: Fresh herb used in chutney for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Jalapeno pepper: Adds a spicy kick to the chutney.
Lime juice: Provides acidity and freshness in the chutney.
Oil: Used in both chutney and cooking the patties for moisture and flavor.
Table salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Red lentils: The main protein base for the burgers, providing a hearty texture.
Red onion: Adds a slight sweetness and crunch to the burger mixture.
Garlic: Infuses a robust, savory flavor into the burgers.
Ginger root: Offers a warm, spicy note that's essential in Indian cuisine.
Carrot: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps bind the burger mixture.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the vegetable mixture and greasing the baking sheet.
Ground turmeric: Provides a warm, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the burgers.
Ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, nutty flavor to the spice mix.
Ground cumin: Brings a smoky, earthy depth to the burgers.
Eggs: Binds the burger mixture together.
Fine dry breadcrumbs: Helps to absorb moisture and keep the burgers intact.
Hamburger buns: The base for serving the lentil burgers.
Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a tangy contrast to the spicy burger.
Cucumber: Provides a refreshing crunch on top of the burger.
Lettuce leaves: Adds freshness and a crisp texture to the burger.
One reader, Alexandra Rector says:
These Indian spiced lentil burgers with cilantro chutney are a flavor explosion! The spices blend perfectly, and the chutney adds a fresh, zesty kick. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they’re a fantastic vegetarian option that even meat-lovers will enjoy. Highly recommend giving them a try!
Cooking Techniques for Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
How to puree: Use a food processor to blend cilantro, jalapeno, lime juice, oil, and salt until the mixture is predominantly smooth but still has some texture.
How to rinse lentils: Spread lentils on a baking sheet to pick out any small stones or dirt, then place them in a sieve and run them under cold water to rinse thoroughly.
How to cook lentils: Bring water, salt, and lentils to a boil in a large saucepan, then adjust to a low boil and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain well in a fine-mesh colander or sieve.
How to pulse vegetables: Use a food processor to finely chop the onion, garlic, ginger, and carrot.
How to bloom spices: Cook spices in a skillet with oil and softened vegetables for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
How to mash lentils: Use a fork or potato masher to mash about half of the lentil mixture, leaving the other half intact.
How to form patties: Mix the lentil mixture with beaten eggs and breadcrumbs, then form into 4-inch patties.
How to broil: Preheat the broiler and set a rack 4 inches from the element. Brush patties with oil and broil for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
How to assemble burgers: Place the cooked patties on buns, spread with chutney, add a dollop of yogurt, and top with sliced cucumbers and lettuce.
How To Make Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers with Cilantro Chutney
These lentil burgers come with a vegetarian patty, leafy greens, and cucumber, plus a dollop of cilantro jalapeno chutney, sandwiched between golden buns.
Serves:
Ingredients
For the Chutney:
- 2cupscilantro,(½ small bunch), stems and leaves coarsely chopped
- 1smalljalapeno pepper,seeded and coarsely chopped
- 3tbsplime juice,(from about 1 lime)
- 1tbspoil
- ¼tsptable salt
For the Burgers:
- 1cupdry red lentils
- 2tsptable salt,divided
- ½red onion,thickly sliced
- 1clovegarlic,sliced
- ginger root,(2-inch), unpeeled, cut into thin slices
- 1medium carrot,thinly sliced
- 2tbspolive oil,plus more for broiling the burgers
- 1tspground turmeric
- 1tspground coriander
- ½tspground cumin
- 2large eggs
- 6tbspfine dry breadcrumbs
For Serving:
- 4hamburger buns,or similar rolls
- 4tbspGreek yogurt
- 1cucumber,thinly sliced
- 4lettuce leaves,or a handful of sprouts, or greens of choice
Instructions
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In a food processor, puree the cilantro, jalapeno, lime juice, 1 tablespoon oil, and ¼ teaspoon salt until slightly smooth”, scraping down the sides of the bowl 2 or 3 times. The mixture will still have some texture but should be predominately smooth.
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Transfer to a small bowl. Don’t wipe out the food processor as it will be used later in the recipe.
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Spread the lentils on a baking sheet and pick out small stones or pieces of dirt if there are any. Place them in a sieve and run them under cold water to rinse them. Drain.
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In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon salt, and the lentils to a boil. Adjust the heat to a low boil and cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until tender but not mushy.
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At this point, they should still hold their shape somewhat, though the outer husks may have separated. Drain well in a fine-mesh colander or sieve.
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While the lentils are cooking and draining, pulse the onion, garlic, ginger, and carrot in the food processor until finely chopped.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add the chopped vegetables and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until softened.
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Add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, and ¾ teaspoon salt and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices. Turn off the burner and remove the pan from the heat.
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Stir the well-drained lentils into the still-warm vegetables in the skillet. With a fork or potato masher, mash about half the mixture, leaving the other half intact.
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Clear a space on one side of the skillet and add the eggs. Beat them well with a fork, and stir them into the lentils. Add the breadcrumbs and stir again. Let the mixture cool enough to handle and form into patties.
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Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly brush it with oil. Form the lentil mixture into 4 patties that are about 4-inches across.
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Refrigerate the patties, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
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Set a rack 4 inches from the broiler element and preheat the broiler. Brush the tops with oil.
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Broil for 5 to 6 minutes, or until golden brown. Turn carefully, brush with more oil, and brown on the other side for another 5 to 6 minutes.
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On 4 buns, place the burgers. Spread each with about 1 tablespoon of the chutney and dollop 1 tablespoon of yogurt on top.
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Top with sliced cucumbers and lettuce or greens of choice.
Nutrition
- Calories: 508.12kcal
- Fat: 16.62g
- Saturated Fat: 3.21g
- Trans Fat: 0.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.77g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.40g
- Carbohydrates: 68.89g
- Fiber: 8.46g
- Sugar: 8.16g
- Protein: 23.22g
- Cholesterol: 95.39mg
- Sodium: 685.40mg
- Calcium: 173.16mg
- Potassium: 741.88mg
- Iron: 6.75mg
- Vitamin A: 209.14µg
- Vitamin C: 16.44mg
Pro Tip for Making Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
When forming the lentil patties, make sure your hands are slightly damp. This prevents the mixture from sticking to your hands and allows you to shape the patties more easily. Additionally, pressing the patties gently but firmly ensures they hold together better during cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, garlic, ginger, and carrot the night before to save time.
Cook lentils in bulk: Prepare extra lentils and freeze them for future use.
Use a mini food processor: Quickly blend the cilantro chutney and chop vegetables with a mini processor.
Pre-make patties: Form the lentil patties and refrigerate them overnight for a quicker meal the next day.
Broil efficiently: Preheat the broiler while forming patties to save time.
Assemble toppings in advance: Slice the cucumber and wash the lettuce ahead of time.
Substitute Ingredients For Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers with Cilantro Chutney Recipe
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a similar fresh and slightly peppery flavor, though it is less pungent than cilantro.
jalapeno pepper - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile to jalapenos.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
oil - Substitute with ghee: Ghee adds a rich, buttery flavor that complements Indian spices well.
table salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar saltiness but can offer a slightly different texture and mineral content.
red lentils - Substitute with green lentils: Green lentils hold their shape better and have a slightly peppery flavor.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar sweetness and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor similar to a combination of garlic and onion.
ginger root - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in smaller quantities to provide a similar warm, spicy flavor.
carrot - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes offer a similar sweetness and texture when cooked.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
ground turmeric - Substitute with saffron: Saffron provides a similar color and a unique, slightly sweet flavor.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin offers a warm, earthy flavor that complements Indian spices well.
ground cumin - Substitute with caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a similar earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness.
eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can act as a binding agent similar to eggs.
fine dry breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar texture and can be used as a binder.
hamburger buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a similar structure with added fiber and nutrients.
greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and is a good dairy-free option.
cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative.
lettuce leaves - Substitute with spinach leaves: Spinach leaves offer a similar fresh, crisp texture and added nutrients.
Plating Ideas for Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
Serve smaller portion sizes: Create mini lentil burgers by forming smaller patties. This allows for a more refined presentation and easier consumption.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a drizzle of cilantro chutney in an artistic pattern, adding a pop of color and visual appeal.
Layering technique: Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the lentil patty, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and thinly sliced cucumber. Top with another lettuce leaf for a balanced and structured look.
Elegant plating: Use a rectangular or square plate to arrange the components neatly. Place the burger slightly off-center and add a small ramekin of extra cilantro chutney on the side.
Textural contrast: Add a few cucumber slices and a small carrot ribbon salad dressed with lime juice and a pinch of salt next to the burger for a refreshing crunch.
Height and dimension: Stack the burger components to create height. Use a toothpick or a small skewer to hold the layers together, giving the dish a vertical dimension.
Color balance: Ensure the cilantro chutney and Greek yogurt are visible to add vibrant green and creamy white hues to the plate, balancing the earthy tones of the lentil patty.
Finishing touch: Sprinkle a pinch of ground turmeric and coriander around the plate for a subtle hint of the spices used in the burger, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lentil Burgers
Food processor: Used to puree the cilantro chutney and finely chop the onion, garlic, ginger, and carrot.
Small bowl: Used to transfer the cilantro chutney after pureeing.
Baking sheet: Used to spread out the lentils for picking out small stones or dirt and later for forming the patties.
Sieve: Used to rinse and drain the lentils.
Large saucepan: Used to boil the lentils.
Fine-mesh colander: Used to drain the cooked lentils.
Large skillet: Used to cook the chopped vegetables and mix in the lentils and spices.
Fork or potato masher: Used to mash about half of the lentil mixture.
Foil: Used to line the baking sheet for forming the patties.
Broiler: Used to broil the patties until golden brown.
Rack: Set 4 inches from the broiler element to ensure even cooking of the patties.
Brush: Used to lightly brush oil on the foil and the tops of the patties before broiling.
Spatula: Used to carefully turn the patties while broiling.
Hamburger buns: Used for serving the lentil burgers.
Knife: Used to slice the cucumber for serving.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the spices, lime juice, oil, and salt.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the cilantro, lentils, and breadcrumbs.
Storing and Freezing Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
- To store leftover lentil burgers, allow them to cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cooled burgers in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen burgers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Store leftover cilantro chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the chutney in ice cube trays until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen chutney, place the desired amount in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- When assembling leftover or thawed burgers, toast fresh buns and prepare fresh toppings for the best taste and texture.
Reheating Leftover Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
To reheat leftover indian spiced lentil burgers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the burgers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the burgers loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the burgers in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the burgers in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the burgers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat the burgers, as they may become dry or rubbery.
To reheat the cilantro chutney, transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Stir the chutney before serving to ensure even heating.
If you have leftover buns, you can refresh them by wrapping them in aluminum foil and placing them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
When reheating the burgers, be sure to assemble them with fresh toppings such as lettuce, cucumber, and yogurt to maintain the best texture and flavor. Avoid reheating the assembled burgers, as the toppings may become soggy or wilted.
Interesting Fact About Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
A random fact about this recipe is that red lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and cook much faster than other types of lentils, making them ideal for quick and nutritious vegetarian burgers.
Budget-Friendly Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers
This Indian spiced lentil burgers with cilantro chutney recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like red lentils, carrots, and onions are inexpensive and widely available. The use of spices such as turmeric, coriander, and cumin adds depth without breaking the bank. The chutney ingredients, including cilantro and lime juice, are also affordable. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12. Rating: 8/10.
Are These Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers Healthy?
The Indian spiced lentil burgers with cilantro chutney recipe is a relatively healthy option for a vegetarian burger. Here's why:
- Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various nutrients like folate, iron, and magnesium
- The recipe uses a variety of vegetables, including onion, garlic, ginger, carrot, and lettuce, which provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- The cilantro chutney adds a fresh, flavorful element while providing some vitamin K and antioxidants
- Using Greek yogurt as a topping adds a good source of protein and calcium
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- Opt for whole wheat or multigrain buns instead of regular hamburger buns to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
- Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, as the total amount (2 tsp + 1 tsp + ¼ tsp) is quite high for a single meal
- Consider using a healthier oil, such as avocado oil or coconut oil, instead of olive oil for cooking the vegetables and brushing the patties
To further enhance the nutritional value of the recipe, you could:
- Add some chopped spinach or kale to the lentil mixture for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals
- Incorporate additional spices like turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory properties, or cumin, which aids in digestion
- Serve the burgers with a side salad or roasted vegetables to increase the overall vegetable intake and provide a well-rounded meal
Editor's Opinion on This Lentil Burger Recipe
This recipe for Indian spiced lentil burgers with cilantro chutney is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of aromatic spices like turmeric, coriander, and cumin with the earthy lentils creates a satisfying patty. The cilantro chutney adds a fresh, zesty kick, perfectly complementing the savory burger. The use of Greek yogurt and cucumber provides a cooling balance, making each bite refreshing. The method is straightforward, though it requires some prep time. Overall, it's a nutritious and flavorful vegetarian option that is sure to impress.
Enhance Your Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers with Cilantro Chutney Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Indian Spiced Lentil Burgers with Cilantro Chutney Recipe:
This recipe for Indian spiced lentil burgers with cilantro chutney is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful and nutritious meal. The combination of red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying burger that is both hearty and healthy. The cilantro chutney adds a zesty kick, perfectly complementing the savory patties. With detailed instructions and carefully selected ingredients, this recipe ensures a delicious outcome every time. Trust in the balance of flavors and the wholesome ingredients to deliver a meal that will impress your taste buds and nourish your body.
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