Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

These Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes are a delicious way to satisfy your spicy food cravings! Packed with protein and flavor, they are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to meal prep. These cakes bring a delightful blend of spices and textures, making them a favorite among vegans and non-vegans alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Protein Source: These lentil cakes are rich in plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
• Flavorful and Spicy: The combination of smoked paprika, chili flakes, and fresh herbs gives these cakes a unique and tasty kick.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main dish, snack, or appetizer, they can be served with various sides or sauces.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these tasty cakes in no time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time and freeze the extras for quick meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process seamless. Having everything ready will help you create these delicious lentil cakes without any hassle.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Pot
• Strainer
• Fork or vertical blender
• Non-stick frying pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients.
• Pot: Used for cooking lentils thoroughly, ensuring they are soft before mashing.
• Strainer: Essential for removing excess water from cooked lentils, preventing sogginess in the cakes.
• Non-stick frying pan: Helps achieve crispy edges without sticking; perfect for frying the patties evenly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To make these flavorful Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cakes

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 bunch parsley (chopped)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 4 Tbsps psyllium husks (or one large egg)
• 4 Tbsps nutritional yeast flakes
• 2 bell peppers (I used one red and one yellow, chopped)
• 1/2 cup flour (I used some chickpea flour)
• 2 tsps smoked paprika
• 1 tsp spicy paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• sea salt and ground pepper (to taste)
• oil (for frying)

How to Make Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

1. Add red lentils in a pot and cover them with water.
2. Bring to a boil and let them cook for about 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat once cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

1. Strain the cooked lentils very well using a strainer.
2. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mash the lentils using a fork or vertical blender until smooth.
4. Add in chopped parsley, diced onion, psyllium husks (or egg), nutritional yeast flakes, chopped bell peppers, chickpea flour, smoked paprika, spicy paprika, chili flakes, sea salt, and ground pepper.

Step 3: Mix Until Sticky

1. Begin mixing all components together until well combined.
2. Ensure the mixture is sticky enough to shape into patties. If too wet, add additional flour until achieving dough-like consistency.
3. Alternatively, let it rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes if adjustments are needed.

Step 4: Fry the Lentil Cakes

1. Lightly spray a non-stick frying pan with oil.
2. Shape the mixture into patties and place them on the hot pan.
3. Fry each patty for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Now you have delicious Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes ready to enjoy! Perfectly paired with your favorite dipping sauce or salad on the side!

How to Serve Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

These spicy vegan lentil cakes are versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Whether as a main dish or a side, they can elevate any meal with their unique flavor.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances the spiciness of the lentil cakes.

Inside a Wrap

• Place the lentil cakes inside a whole grain wrap with avocado and diced vegetables for a quick and healthy meal.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serve the cakes over a bed of fluffy quinoa, topped with a zesty lemon dressing for added flavor.

With Dipping Sauce

• Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce like tahini or yogurt alternative for extra creaminess.

As Appetizers

• Cut them into smaller pieces and serve as appetizers at your next gathering, accompanied by assorted dips.

How to Perfect Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Making the perfect spicy vegan lentil cakes involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh herbs and vegetables will improve the overall flavor of your lentil cakes.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste your mixture before frying and adjust spices according to your preference for heat.
• Let it rest – Allowing the mixture to rest in the fridge helps it firm up, making it easier to shape.
• Cook on medium heat – This allows the cakes to get crispy on the outside while ensuring they cook through without burning.
• Experiment with toppings – Try different toppings like avocado slices or salsa for added taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Pairing side dishes with spicy vegan lentil cakes can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad with dill provides coolness against the spiciness.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted veggies bring both flavor and nutrients, complementing the lentil cakes perfectly.
3. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness that contrasts nicely with spicy flavors.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli is nutritious and keeps the focus on the lentil cakes.
5. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole offers richness that pairs beautifully with the spicy kick of the lentils.
6. Rice Pilaf – Flavored rice pilaf adds another layer of taste and texture, enhancing your overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not straining the lentils well: If the lentils retain too much water, the mixture will become too wet. Ensure you strain them thoroughly before mashing.
• Ignoring the consistency: The mixture should be sticky and shapeable. If it’s too dry, add more flour; if too wet, let it rest in the fridge for a bit.
• Using the wrong pan: A non-stick pan is essential for frying these cakes without sticking. Make sure your pan is well-sprayed with oil to prevent any mishaps.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many cakes at once can lower the temperature of your oil, leading to soggy cakes. Fry in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste is different. Don’t hesitate to adjust spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes based on your preference.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

• Place cooked and cooled cakes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent drying out.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a lightly oiled pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes.

Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can experiment with green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils give the best texture for these cakes.

How do I spice up my Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes?

Feel free to add more spices such as cumin or coriander. You can also incorporate finely chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! For a healthier option, place shaped patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What sides go well with Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes?

These cakes pair well with salads, dips like hummus or tahini, or even stuffed in pita bread with fresh vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes are not only delicious but also versatile and packed with protein. You can easily customize them with different spices or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to satisfy your cravings while offering plenty of room for creativity!