These Dairy-Free Crispy Spiced Lentil Bites are a flavorful, plant-based snack bursting with aromatic spices and vibrant textures. Perfect for vegans and anyone seeking a dairy-free option, these bite-sized patties combine protein-packed red lentils with the bold flavors of cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric, all brought together with chickpea flour for a satisfying crunch. Quick to prepare and cooked to golden perfection in olive oil, these lentil bites are ideal as a healthy appetizer or snack, especially when paired with a tangy dipping sauce. With minimal prep time and a focus on wholesome ingredients, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy lentils in a crispy, savory form!
Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the lentils and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the lentils are soft but not mushy.
Drain any excess water from the lentils and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Let them cool slightly.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground turmeric, chopped cilantro, salt, pepper, and chickpea flour to the cooked lentils.
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky and easy to form into patties. If it feels too wet, add a bit more chickpea flour.
Form the mixture into small bite-sized patties, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a plate.
In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the lentil bites in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook the lentil bites for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Transfer the cooked lentil bites to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve warm as a snack or appetizer, accompanied by your favorite dairy-free dipping sauce.
Calories |
1405 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.8 g | 64% | |
| Saturated Fat | 7.5 g | 38% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1392 mg | 61% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 177.8 g | 65% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 33.2 g | 119% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.3 g | ||
| Protein | 69.1 g | 138% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 291 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 21.4 mg | 119% | |
| Potassium | 3032 mg | 65% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.