Crispy Lentil Cakes with Green Tahini A wholesome and protein-packed dish with a creamy, herby drizzle — perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!

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Crispy Lentil Cakes with Green Tahini

350 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef Amber (AI Chef):

If you’re looking for a nutritious, plant-based meal that delivers on both flavor and crunch, these Crispy Lentil Cakes with Green Tahini are about to become a staple in your kitchen. Made with red or brown lentils, fresh herbs, and warming spices, they’re pan-fried or air-fried to golden perfection. But the real star? That zesty green tahini sauce. This vibrant recipe is perfect for anyone craving a satisfying yet wholesome dish. Whether you serve them warm with a salad or tuck them into a wrap, these lentil cakes are endlessly versatile — and kid-approved!

Nutrition Facts

Calories285; fat 14g; Carbohydrates 26g; Protein 13g. Fiber: 8g

Descriptions

Packed with wholesome plant protein, fragrant herbs, and bold spices, these golden lentil cakes bring irresistible flavor and crunch to every bite.They’re baked or air-fried for a crunchy exterior and tender inside.Topped with a vibrant green tahini sauce bursting with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, these lentil cakes strike the perfect harmony between zesty and savory. Great for meal prep, lunchboxes, or casual get-togethers, they’re easy to make in bulk and store well for days.

Directions

Step 1

Cook the Lentils

Rinse the lentils and add them to a pot with 2½ cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until tender. Drain any excess liquid and let cool slightly.

Step 2

Sauté Aromatics

In a small skillet, cook the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes). Let cool.

Step 3

Make the Mixture

In a large bowl, mash the lentils with a fork or potato masher until partially smooth. Add the cooked onion mixture, grated carrot, spices, herbs, breadcrumbs, and salt and pepper. Mix until combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed — if too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Step 4

Form the Cakes

Scoop about 2–3 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into patties. You should get about 10–12 cakes.

Step 5

Cook the Cakes

Air Fryer Method: Lightly brush or spray cakes with oil. Place in an air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes per side or until golden.
Pan-Fried Method: Heat a nonstick skillet with a little olive oil. Cook the patties 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6

Prepare the Green Tahini

In a blender or small food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and salt. Add water 1 tablespoon at a time and blend until smooth and pourable.

Step 7

Serve

Serve lentil cakes warm, drizzled with green tahini sauce. Add fresh salad or tuck them into pita pockets or wraps for a full meal.

Pro Tips

Pre-cook for meal prep: These lentil cakes store well! 9.Cook them in advance and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freeze for later: Layer cakes between parchment paper and freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Make them extra crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for more crunch.

Use canned lentils: Short on time? Canned lentils work great. Just rinse and drain well.

Creative Variations

Add cheese: Mix in ¼ cup crumbled feta for a Mediterranean twist.

Spicy version: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or a dash of chili flakes.

Veggie boost: Stir in finely chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients.

Swap the sauce: Try it with Greek yogurt lemon sauce or a spicy harissa drizzle.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned lentils instead of dry?
A: Yes! Just use about 2½ cups of drained canned lentils.

Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: They can be! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I bake them instead?
A: Definitely. 10.Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: Can kids eat these?
A: Absolutely! 11.They’re soft inside and mild in flavor — great finger food for toddlers, too.

Advice for Gifting

Make a “meal prep starter kit” gift:

A jar of dry lentils

A small container of homemade tahini sauce

A handwritten recipe card
Wrap it all in a kitchen towel with a wooden spoon — perfect for foodie friends!

Fun Ways to Serve

Lentil Cake Bowls: Add quinoa, roasted veggies, and tahini sauce.

Lentil Sliders: Tuck cakes into mini buns with lettuce and sauce.

Pita Pockets: Fill with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and lentil cakes.

Wraps: Roll in a flatbread with pickled onions and greens.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Lentil Cakes with Green Tahini are more than just a meatless Monday idea — they’re packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and satisfying enough to impress everyone at your table. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, prepping lunches for the week, or just trying to eat more plants, this recipe delivers on every front.