Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Green Veggie Burgers

These hearty lentil and vegetable burgers are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meat burgers. They're made with a combination of lentils, bell peppers, onions, zucchini, cilantro, and spices, and they're packed with protein and fiber. Best of all, they're easy to make and can be cooked in just 30 minutes.

The lentil burger has a long and storied history, dating back to the ancient Middle East. Lentils were one of the first domesticated legumes, and they were a staple food for many ancient civilizations. In the Middle Ages, lentil burgers were a popular dish among both Christians and Muslims. They were often served during Lent, when meat was forbidden. Over time, lentil burgers spread to other parts of the world, and they eventually became a popular dish in the United States. Today, lentil burgers are enjoyed by people of all ages and cultures. They're a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional meat burgers, and they're perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils in the vegetable broth according to the package instructions.
2. Mash the cooked lentils until mostly smooth.
3. Combine the mashed lentils, bell pepper, onion, zucchini, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
4. Form the mixture into patties.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve the veggie burgers on buns with your favorite toppings.

Why It Works

• The lentils provide a hearty and nutritious base for the burgers. They're packed with protein and fiber, and they're a good source of iron and other essential nutrients.
• The vegetables add flavor and texture to the burgers. The bell peppers, onions, and zucchini provide a sweet and savory flavor, and they help to keep the burgers moist.
• The cilantro adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the burgers. It helps to balance out the sweetness of the vegetables and the heartiness of the lentils.
• The spices add depth and complexity to the flavor of the burgers. The cumin and coriander provide a warm and earthy flavor, and the salt and pepper help to balance out the sweetness of the vegetables and the heartiness of the lentils.