So it's a Bank Holiday weekend. The sun is shining. Having or going to a barbeque is a given. But what to eat if you don't fancy a face full of "well done" meat? Avoid the taste of charcoal and get your chops around some delicious lentil burgers. Here's how:
You will need -
3 cups of cooked black or green lentils (the black ones are less mushy)
4 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 onion, finely chopped
1 cup of toasted fine bread crumbs
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Chopped coriander, a pinch of cumin, paprika or chilli for flavour
Mix up the lentils, eggs and salt in a bowl. If you're lucky enough to have a food processor then whack the ingredients in there for a minute. If not, it's good old elbow grease I'm afraid. Now stir in the onion, the coriander and a pinch of your favourite herbs or spices to add an extra kick. Add the bread crumbs and let the mixture rest for a moment so the bread crumbs can soak up some of the excess moisture.
Now for the fun/messy bit. (You may want to sieve some flour onto a chopping board or plate as this can help to keep the mixture together). Get your hands into that big bowl of sticky mixture and create your burger patties. This recipe should be enough for 6 large burgers or 12 mini ones if you're feeling a little daintier.
Heat the oil in a frying pan and add the patties. Cook for 7-10 minutes on each side until they're nice and golden brown. Grab a bun, add some salad (maybe some caramelised red onions), a slice of mozerella if you fancy and Bob's your uncle, you've got yourself a tasty BBQ treat.
