Lentil Quinoa Meatloaf Burgers

Try this Lentil Quinoa Meatloaf Burgers recipe.

Lentil Quinoa Meatloaf Burgers
Lentil Quinoa Meatloaf Burgers

Step-by-step

  • Cook the lentils and quinoa, drain and keep aside.
  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, garlic and jalapeno and cook for 5 minutes or until translucent.
  • Add celery, carrots, thyme, oregano, and mix well. Cook for 5 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
  • Add some currants or dried cranberries at this point and mix in.
  • Add the cooked veggies, flaxmeal, cooked lentils and quinoa to a bowl and mix.
  • Mash the mixture using potato masher or hands, so that at least half the lentils and quinoa get well mashed. (you still want some whole lentils).
  • Add in the sauces, nutritional yeast, and mix well. You can also add ½ tsp coarsely crushed fennel seeds at this point.
  • Add breadcrumbs or coarsely ground oats and mix in.
  • Taste and adjust salt and flavor. Add more sauces, herbs and salt if needed. (To check if the mixture is the right consistency, make a burger patty. If the mixture is too sticky or pasty, add more breadcrumbs. If it is too crumbly and doesn't stick easily, add some wet sauce or 1 flax egg (1 tbsp flax meal mixed in 2.5 tbsp water).
  • Chill the mixture for 10 - 15 mins if the mixture is too moist.
  • Shape into burger patties or use a cookie cutter to make patties.
  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and pan fry the patties with or without oil for 4 to 6 mins, or until golden brown on both sides.
  • Mix the ingredients under glaze.
  • Add a glaze to the burger patties in last 2 mins of cooking or add the glaze just before serving.
  • Serve over greens, toppings of choice with additional glaze. I served the burgers with a chopped salad of cucumber, onion, radish, tomato mixed with salt, pepper, lemon and cilantro. with a side of Sweet Potato Fries

Lentil Quinoa Meatloaf Burgers: A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight

As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This Lentil Quinoa Meatloaf Burger recipe has become a staple in our house, a true lifesaver on those hectic weeknights. It's packed with flavor, surprisingly hearty, and offers a fantastic vegetarian alternative to traditional meatloaf.

What I love most about these burgers is their versatility. You can easily customize them to your taste preferences. Don't like jalapenos? Leave them out! Want to add different spices? Go for it! The basic recipe provides a solid foundation, but feel free to experiment and make it your own. I often add a handful of chopped mushrooms or finely diced bell peppers for extra texture and nutrients. Sometimes, when I’m feeling particularly adventurous, I’ll even incorporate some finely grated zucchini to sneak in extra vegetables.

The combination of lentils and quinoa creates a wonderfully satisfying texture. The lentils provide heartiness, while the quinoa adds a fluffy lightness. Together, they create a patty that's both substantial and flavorful. The addition of herbs and spices – such as thyme, oregano, and a touch of cayenne – infuses the burgers with a depth of flavor that's both savory and slightly spicy. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess that perfectly complements the earthy flavors of the lentils and quinoa.

Beyond their delicious taste, these burgers are also incredibly healthy. They're a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, aiding in digestion and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a valuable addition to any diet. The vegetables add further nutritional value, offering a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Making these burgers is surprisingly simple and straightforward. The process involves cooking the lentils and quinoa (I often cook a large batch on the weekend to save time during the week), sautéing the vegetables, and then combining all the ingredients in a bowl. The mixture is then shaped into patties and pan-fried until golden brown. The entire process, from start to finish, usually takes me about 30 minutes, which is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

These lentil quinoa meatloaf burgers are not just a delicious and healthy meal; they're also a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables and plant-based protein into your diet. They're perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or even a potluck. Serve them on buns with your favorite toppings, or simply enjoy them on their own with a side salad. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Success:

  • Don't overcook the lentils and quinoa. Slightly undercooked lentils and quinoa will help create a better texture in the burgers.
  • Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to add more or less of any spice, herb, or sauce to suit your taste preferences.
  • Use a good quality glaze. A flavorful glaze will elevate the taste of the burgers to the next level.
  • Don't be afraid to experiment. Add other vegetables, spices, or herbs to create your own unique version of these delicious burgers.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve the burgers on whole-wheat buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, and a dollop of your favorite condiment.
  • Pair the burgers with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
  • Serve the burgers with sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables for a more complete and satisfying meal.

This Lentil Quinoa Meatloaf Burger recipe is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients combined to create a truly delicious and satisfying meal. It's a recipe that I know I'll be making for years to come, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen as well!