If you’re looking for a hearty and healthy dinner idea that won’t break the bank, look no further than lentil meatballs! Not only are they budget-friendly, but they are also easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, lentil meatballs are a great option.
Key Takeaways
- Lentil meatballs are a budget-friendly and easy-to-make dinner option.
- They are a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet.
- There are many variations of lentil meatballs, including vegan, lentil mushroom, Turkish, and lentil walnut.
Vegan Lentil Meatballs Recipe
If you’re looking for a vegan version of lentil meatballs, you’re in luck! This recipe is just as delicious and satisfying as the traditional version.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 cup cooked lentils | Start by cooking your lentils. Follow the instructions on the package, or use canned lentils for convenience. |
| 1/2 cup breadcrumbs | Combine the cooked lentils with 1/2 cup breadcrumbs in a large mixing bowl. |
| 1/4 cup chopped onion | Add 1/4 cup chopped onion to the lentil mixture. |
| 2 cloves garlic, minced | Mince 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the bowl. |
| 1 tablespoon tomato paste | Mix in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste for added flavor. |
| 1 teaspoon dried oregano | Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano to the mixture. |
| 1/4 teaspoon salt | Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt, or to taste. |
| 1/4 teaspoon black pepper | Add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to the mixture. |
| 1 flax egg | Prepare a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, then add it to the bowl. |
| Oil for frying | Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Shape the lentil mixture into golf ball-sized balls and fry them until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. |
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. You can add some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, for a pop of flavor. You can also use different types of breadcrumbs, like panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs, if you have dietary restrictions. Serve these lentil meatballs over pasta, rice, or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Flavorsome Lentil Mushroom Meatballs
If you’re a fan of mushrooms, these lentil mushroom meatballs are sure to impress. The combination of lentils and mushrooms creates a meaty texture that is full of flavor.
Start by cooking 1 cup of lentils according to package directions. While the lentils are cooking, sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms in a tablespoon of olive oil until they are browned and tender.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 cup cooked lentils | 1. Cook 1 cup of lentils according to package directions. |
| 8 oz sliced mushrooms | 2. Sauté 8 oz of sliced mushrooms in a tablespoon of olive oil until they are browned and tender. |
| 1/4 cup bread crumbs | 3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils and sautéed mushrooms. Add 1/4 cup of bread crumbs and mix well. |
| 1 egg, beaten | 4. Add 1 beaten egg to the mixture and stir until the mixture is well combined. |
| 1/2 tsp garlic powder | 5. Add 1/2 tsp of garlic powder and season with salt and pepper to taste. |
| Salt and pepper, to taste | 6. Roll the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. |
Bake the lentil mushroom meatballs in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until they are slightly browned and crispy on the outside.
Tip: You can serve these lentil mushroom meatballs with your favorite pasta and tomato sauce for a complete meal.
Turkish Lentil Balls: A Tasty Twist
If you’re looking to add some spice to your lentil meatball recipe, why not take inspiration from Turkey? Turkish lentil balls are a flavorful take on this classic dish, featuring a unique blend of herbs and spices.
To make Turkish lentil balls, you’ll need:
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup fine bulgur wheat
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Start by rinsing the lentils and boiling them in a pot of water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils with the onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the bulgur wheat and knead the mixture with your hands until it becomes a cohesive mass. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and stir until well combined. Gently place the lentil balls into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Serve your Turkish lentil balls hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a side of yogurt. They’re perfect for a vegetarian or vegan dinner, and are sure to be a hit with your family or guests.
Lentil Walnut Meatballs: A Nutty Delight
If you’re looking for a delicious twist on traditional lentil meatballs, consider adding some walnuts to the mix. Not only do they provide a delightful nutty flavor, but they also add a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the soft lentil balls.
To make these lentil walnut meatballs, simply follow the recipe for basic lentil meatballs, but add in some chopped walnuts to the mixture. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to find the perfect flavor combination.
For a simple and flavorful sauce to accompany your lentil walnut meatballs, try mixing together some olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Drizzle this over your meatballs and enjoy!
These nutty lentil meatballs are a delicious and unique twist on a classic vegetarian dish. You can serve them over pasta, rice, or even on their own as an appetizer. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a nutty delight for dinner!
Conclusion
There you have it – a selection of delicious and easy lentil meatball recipes for you to try out! Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a budget-friendly dinner option, lentil meatballs are a great choice.
Experiment with these recipes and try out your own variations – the possibilities are endless! And don’t forget about the Turkish lentil balls, with their unique blend of spices and cooking method.
So next time you’re craving something savory and satisfying, give these lentil meatballs a try. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!
FAQ
Q: Are lentil meatballs suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, lentil meatballs are a great vegetarian option as they are made from lentils and do not contain any meat.
Q: Can I make gluten-free lentil meatballs?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or a gluten-free alternative like almond flour.
Q: How do I store leftover lentil meatballs?
A: Allow the lentil meatballs to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze lentil meatballs?
A: Yes, lentil meatballs can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use different types of lentils in the recipes?
A: Absolutely! Lentil meatballs can be made with different types of lentils such as green lentils, red lentils, or French lentils. Each type may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the meatballs.
Q: Are lentil meatballs kid-friendly?
A: Lentil meatballs are a great option for kids as they are packed with nutrients and offer a delicious alternative to traditional meatballs. You can also customize the seasoning and spices to suit their taste preferences.