Pumpkin & Red Lentil Patties, Crispy & Spiced
Looking for a delightful and healthy snack or appetizer? These crispy spiced pumpkin and red lentil patties are just the thing! Packed with flavor and nutrients, they make for an excellent vegan option that everyone will love. Ready in under 30 minutes with an air fryer, they're perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked red lentils
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray for air frying
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked red lentils, pumpkin puree, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Shape the Patties: Form the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Roll each patty in breadcrumbs to coat.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Patties: Arrange the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with olive oil and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the air fryer and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or on a salad.
Cook’s tips
- Make sure the red lentils are cooked until very soft and well-drained to avoid a mushy mixture.
- Chill the patty mixture in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before shaping to help them hold together.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even crisping.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the patties with oil again after flipping.
Substitutions
- Use sweet potato puree instead of pumpkin puree for a slightly different flavor.
- Replace breadcrumbs with crushed oats or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for extra heat.
- Use fresh parsley or dill instead of cilantro if preferred.
Storage & reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bake these patties in the oven instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place patties on a lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
Absolutely! Shape the patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air fryer time.
What dipping sauce goes well with these patties?
A simple yogurt-based tzatziki, a spicy tomato chutney, or a creamy tahini sauce all pair beautifully with these spiced patties.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is not too wet; if it's too moist, add a little more breadcrumbs. Also, chilling the mixture helps them bind better.
