Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties

Name: Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 carrot, grated; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil for frying; 4 slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Sliced cucumbers; Your favorite sauce or condiment

Highlighted under: Inspired Food

I love creating exciting and flavorful plant-based meals, and these Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties are a personal favorite. The combination of spices and ingredients brings a delightful kick to every bite. We often serve these sliders at gatherings, as they are always a hit among both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. The process of making the patties is simple yet rewarding, providing a satisfying texture and taste. Trust me, once you make these, they will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire!

Created by

Yasmin Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:45:35.935Z

Making these Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties was a game-changer in my kitchen! I experimented with various spices until I found the perfect blend that enhances the lentils' flavor, creating a satisfying and spicy bite that everyone loves. It’s incredible how the right seasonings can elevate a simple patty into something memorable.

What I discovered is that letting the lentil mixture sit for a few minutes before forming the patties allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This step ensures that every bite packs a punch and creates a wonderfully firm texture that holds up perfectly in a slider bun!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Bold spices that create a unique flavor profile
Nutritious and satisfying for all eaters
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion

      

The Spices that Bring Life

The spices in these lentil patties aren't just for flavor; they play a key role in elevating the overall dish. Cumin and coriander contribute earthy notes that complement the hearty lentils, while chili powder adds a necessary kick. If you're looking to customize, consider increasing the chili powder for a spicier version or even incorporating smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. Remember to toast your spices in the olive oil before mixing them in to release their essential oils and maximize their flavor.

When choosing your spices, freshness really matters. Ground spices lose potency over time, so if your cumin or coriander has been sitting in your cupboard for a while, it might be time for a refresh. Fresh spices can make a significant difference in the flavor intensity of these patties, making them even more enticing at gatherings.

Texture and Binding: Key to Perfect Patties

The texture of your lentil patties is essential for them to hold up during cooking and when assembled into sliders. To achieve the right consistency, ensure your lentils are well-cooked but not mushy; they should retain some shape. Mashing them slightly with a fork will give them a firm base while still allowing for some chunkiness that adds to the patty's structure.

Using breadcrumbs not only helps bind the mixture but also contributes to a crispy exterior once cooked. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with ground oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just be cautious with the moisture content; start with less than half a cup of breadcrumbs and add more if needed to achieve the desired firmness.

Ingredients

For the Spicy Lentil Patties

1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, grated
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil for frying

For Assembly

4 slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced cucumbers
Your favorite sauce or condiment

Assemble the sliders with your prepared ingredients!

Instructions

Prepare the Lentil Mixture

In a bowl, mash the cooked lentils with a fork until slightly chunky. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.

Form the Patties

Shape the lentil mixture into small patties, ensuring they are firm enough to hold their shape.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each lentil patty on a slider bun, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Add your choice of sauce or condiment.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious sliders!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the lentil mixture for a few hours before cooking. You can also customize the toppings based on your preferences.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you wish to prepare these sliders in advance, you can make the lentil patties and store them in the fridge for up to two days. Just ensure they are covered tightly to prevent drying out. You can also freeze uncooked patties for up to a month. Simply layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking, and place them in an airtight container. When ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; just increase the cooking time by a minute or two.

Leftover patties make for a quick and nutritious snack or lunch option. Simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through. You can also add them to salads or grain bowls for extra protein and flavor!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These sliders are versatile and can be served with a variety of toppings and sauces. Try adding diced avocado for creaminess, or a dollop of spicy mayo for an extra kick. You can also play around with different ingredients like grilled bell peppers or pickled onions, which can add vibrant flavors and textures to your sliders.

For a more appetizing presentation, serve the sliders on a platter with an array of colorful toppings, allowing guests to customize their own. Consider pairing with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh quinoa salad for a complete meal experience that pleases everyone, vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.

→ Can these patties be frozen?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties and fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for lentils?

If you don’t have lentils, you can use cooked chickpeas or black beans as a base for the patties.

→ How spicy are these sliders?

The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of chili powder and choosing milder or hotter varieties based on your preference.