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Crispy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs
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The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs: A Plant Based Protein Powerhouse

These vegetarian lentil meatballs are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with savory flavors that will satisfy both vegetarians and meat eaters alike.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Course: Snack
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups green lentils dried
  • 2 medium carrots roughly chopped
  • 1 medium onion roughly chopped
  • 1 medium potato peeled and cubed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • Seasonings
  • 1 pinch fresh parsley finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Paprika to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Ground cumin to taste
  • For Cooking
  • 2½ cups water
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  • Step 1: Boil the Vegetables and Lentils
  • Add green lentils, chopped carrots, chopped onion, and cubed potato to a large pot
  • Pour in 2½ cups of water
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low-medium
  • Cook for 25-30 minutes until everything is tender
  • Drain excess liquid
  • Step 2: Mash the Mixture
  • Mash the cooked lentils and vegetables thoroughly using a potato masher
  • Aim for a smooth consistency with some texture remaining
  • Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature
  • Step 3: Prepare the Dough
  • Transfer the cooled mashed mixture to a large bowl
  • Add the egg, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt, paprika, black pepper, and cumin
  • Knead everything together with your hands until fully combined
  • The mixture should be firm enough to shape
  • Step 4: Shape the Meatballs
  • With slightly damp hands, take portions of the mixture
  • Shape into round balls or flatten into patties
  • Make them uniform in size for even cooking
  • You should get 12-16 meatballs depending on size
  • Step 5: Fry Until Golden
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (about ¼ inch deep)
  • Test oil temperature with a small piece of mixture - it should sizzle immediately
  • Carefully place meatballs in hot oil without overcrowding
  • Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy
  • Work in batches if necessary
  • Step 6: Drain and Serve
  • Transfer fried meatballs to a paper towel-lined plate
  • Drain excess oil
  • Serve hot and enjoy immediately