Crispy Lentil Patties with Spiced Cauliflower Puree and Minted Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

• •1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• •2 cups water
• •1 small onion, finely chopped
• •2 cloves garlic, minced
• •1 tsp ground cumin
• •1 tsp smoked paprika
• •1/2 tsp ground coriander
• •1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• •1 egg, beaten
• •Salt and pepper to taste
• •2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
• •1 small head of cauliflower, chopped
• •1/2 cup vegetable broth
• •1/2 cup coconut milk
• •1/2 tsp turmeric
• •1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• •1 tbsp olive oil
• •1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• •1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• •2 tbsp lemon juice
• •1 tbsp honey
• •1/4 tsp chili flakes
• •Salt to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear, then combine them with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the water is absorbed. Allow to cool slightly.

2. 2

   Mash the cooked lentils in a bowl and mix in the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined and the mixture holds together.

3. 3

   Shape the lentil mixture into small patties, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter. Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the patties in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

4. 4

   For the cauliflower puree, steam the chopped cauliflower until tender, about 8-10 minutes. In a blender or food processor, combine the steamed cauliflower with vegetable broth, coconut milk, turmeric, ground nutmeg, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

5. 5

   To prepare the minted cucumber salad, thinly slice the cucumber and place it in a bowl. Add the chopped mint leaves, lemon juice, honey, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt. Toss well to combine and let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. 6

   To serve, spread a generous portion of the spiced cauliflower puree onto each plate. Top with the crispy lentil patties and a side of the minted cucumber salad. Garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.

7. 7

   Enjoy this flavorful and balanced dish as a light dinner or a gourmet appetizer for guests.