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Lentils are a staple food in many cultures, and for good reason: they are packed with protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals. Red lentils, in particular, are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans who want to boost their protein intake.
One of the most popular and delicious ways to enjoy red lentils is by making falafel. Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of balls of ground chickpeas or fava beans that are deep-fried and served on pita bread with various toppings. But did you know that you can make falafel with red lentils instead? This version is not only higher in protein but also has a slightly nuttier flavor and a soft, tender texture.
These high-protein red lentil falafel are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed on their own or served in pita bread with your favourite toppings, such as hummus, tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, or a spicy hot sauce. They are also a great option for meal prepping and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry red lentils
- 2 cups water
- 1 small onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup chopped parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp flour
- 3 tbsp sesame seeds
- Oil for frying
Method
- Soak the red lentils in water for at least one hour or overnight until they’ve doubled in size.
- Drain and rinse the lentils and then blitz them in a food processor with the onion, garlic, parsley, salt and cumin.
- Add a little water until you get a paste-like consistency.
- In a bowl, slowly incorporate the flour until it comes together in a soft dough.
- Separate the dough into small balls and roll them lightly in sesame seeds.
- In a pan, heat a few inches of oil and fry each falafel until slightly golden on the outside.
