Cut costs, increase protein with lentils

(Lentil Burgers are a satisfying part of a meatless diet)

Life would be dull without lentils, especially for vegetarians.
Packed with protein, vitamins and minerals, lentils are an important part of a meatless diet. They are also a staple in Indian and other ethnic cuisines, and are inexpensive when compared to other protein sources such as meat. Lentils are low in cholesterol, saturated fats and sodium. Combine them with brown rice and you have a perfect protein
Today's Busy Cook in the Poughkeepsie Journal features a story and recipe on lentils.
Delicious hot or cold, lentils lend themselves to a variety of recipes from soups and salads to burgers and baked goods.

I'm posting this recipe again for lentil burgers, which is a staple in our home. They are quick and easy to make and can be treated like any other burger recipe, topped with lettuce, tomato, onion and your favorite super sauce.

Lentil Burgers

1. 1 1/2 cups brown lentils
2. Olive oil
3. 1 egg
4. Tamari
5. 1 cup breadcrumbs
   
6. 3 cloves garlic, minced
7. 1 onion, diced
8. 2 large carrots, grated
9. Fresh parsley and coriander
10. Salt and pepper, to taste
11. Dash of paprika
    

• Pick over the lentils and wash them before putting in a pan with about 3 cups of water.
• Bring it to a boil and then turn down the heat to a simmer; cook for about 25 minutes until the water is absorbed and the lentils are tender.
• Transfer the lentils to a large bowl and let cool.
• While the lentils are cooking you can saute the garlic and onion in a little bit of olive oil.
• Add the carrot. Cook until lightly browned.
• Add about 1 tablespoon of Tamari.
• Add the chopped fresh herbs, salt, pepper and paprika.
• Add the vegetable saute to the cooled lentils along with the egg and breadcrumbs.
• Let the mixture set a bit before shaping into burgers.
• Saute them in a skillet with a little olive oil.
  

Eat them as patties or dress them up as burgers on a bun with lettuce, tomato and red onion.
The mixture would also work as a loaf that can be baked in the oven in a bread pan.