Nut-Free Crispy Spiced Lentil Bites
Packed with bold, aromatic spices and a delightful crunch, these Nut-Free Crispy Spiced Lentil Bites are the ultimate plant-based appetizer or snack. Made with protein-rich red lentils, fresh vegetables like grated carrot and finely chopped onion, and seasoned with a vibrant mix of cumin, coriander, and paprika, these bites are both nutritious and flavorful. The addition of chickpea flour ensures a perfect texture that holds together beautifully for pan-frying. Naturally nut-free, gluten-free, and vegan, these golden-brown lentil bites are ideal for a wide range of dietary preferences. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or chutney for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly satisfying. Perfect for weeknight snacks, party platters, or as a fun twist on falafel!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup Red lentils
- 2 cups Water
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium Carrot, grated
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 cup Chickpea flour
- 2 tablespoons Fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil (for pan-frying)
Instructions
Rinse the red lentils under cold running water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed lentils and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and let them cool.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped onion, grated carrot, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine.
Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the lentil mixture. Mix thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
Stir in the chickpea flour and chopped cilantro until the mixture becomes a thick, cohesive batter that holds together well. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more chickpea flour a tablespoon at a time.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the lentil mixture and shape them into small balls or patties.
Carefully place the lentil bites into the heated skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Repeat with remaining mixture, adding more olive oil to the skillet as needed.
Serve the crispy spiced lentil bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce or chutney.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1282 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 88.3 g | 113% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.8 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2484 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 98.0 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.9 g | 100% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.7 g | ||
| Protein | 34.4 g | 69% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 196 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 12.9 mg | 72% | |
| Potassium | 1780 mg | 38% | |
*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.
