Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties

Name: Sliders with Spicy Lentil Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked lentils; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil for frying; Slider buns; Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Avocado slices; Spicy mayo or your favorite sauce

Highlighted under: Fusion Ideas

I love creating sliders, especially when they are packed with flavor like these spicy lentil patties! Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch combined with a delightful kick. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders are the perfect choice. I find they’re super easy to make and versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and enjoy some tasty sliders together!

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:25:34.484Z

Every time I make these sliders, I am reminded of the joy that comes from crafting something so simple yet so delicious. The spicy lentil patties deliver a full-bodied flavor that stands out, especially when paired with a tangy sauce. The cooking process is straightforward, and I've found that using the right blend of spices really elevates the dish. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

One specific tip I have is to let the lentil patties rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows them to firm up and makes them easy to handle when assembling the sliders. You can also prepare the lentil mixture ahead of time for a quicker assembly during busy evenings or gatherings. Enjoy crafting this delightful treat!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Savory lentils packed with spices for a flavorful bite
Perfectly paired with fresh toppings and sauces
Great for meal prep and catering to various dietary needs

      

Choosing the Right Lentils

Selecting the right type of lentils is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor in your patties. Brown or green lentils work best as they hold their shape during cooking. Avoid split lentils, as they tend to become mushy and less cohesive. When cooking lentils, ensure they are just tender, without any excess water; this helps to maintain the right moisture level in your patty mixture and prevents them from falling apart.

For added depth of flavor, consider adding seasonings or aromatics to the cooking water for your lentils. A bay leaf or a sprig of thyme can infuse subtle notes that enhance the overall taste. Remember to season the lentils with a pinch of salt during cooking, but not too much, as you'll be adding salt later in the lentil mixture.

Perfecting the Patties

When forming your lentil patties, make sure they are tightly packed to prevent them from disintegrating while frying. If the mixture feels too wet, you can adjust by adding a bit more breadcrumbs or even a beaten egg for binding. Conversely, if the mixture is too dry, a splash of water or broth can help. Keep a close eye on the patties as they fry, cooking them until golden brown with crispy edges for the best texture.

Cooking in batches is a good technique, particularly if the skillet is not large enough for multiple patties at once. This ensures each patty gets enough heat to develop that lovely crispy outer layer. If you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to allow for an even cooking process without burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your sliders shine!

For the Lentil Patties

1 cup cooked lentils
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil for frying

For Assembly

Slider buns
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Avocado slices
Spicy mayo or your favorite sauce

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for delicious lentil sliders.

Prepare the Lentil Mixture

In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Form Patties

Using your hands, shape the lentil mixture into small patties, about the size of your slider buns. Make sure they are compact to prevent falling apart during cooking.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook 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. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo. Secure the top bun and serve immediately!

Enjoy your sliders and feel free to add your favorite condiments!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try adding some pickled onions or jalapeños to your sliders. You can also bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a healthier option!

Customizing Your Sliders

The beauty of these sliders lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different toppings to enhance your flavor profile. You might add sliced jalapeños for extra heat, pickled red onions for a tangy crunch, or even a dollop of guacamole instead of fresh avocado slices. Each variation can transform your sliders, keeping your meals exciting and fresh.

For a complete meal idea, serve these sliders alongside a refreshing side salad or sweet potato fries. This combination not only complements the sliders but also adds a colorful and nutritious twist. Pair it with various dipping sauces to elevate the experience, ranging from tangy barbecue to zesty yogurt-based sauces.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These lentil patties store quite well, making them perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. To prevent them from sticking together in the freezer, place parchment paper between layers of patties.

When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for the best results. This method helps to restore their crispy texture. If you prefer using a microwave, do so briefly, watching closely to avoid sogginess. A few minutes in a hot skillet afterward can get them crisp again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the lentil patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the patties in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.

→ Are these sliders gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and slider buns.

→ What other toppings do you recommend?

Feel free to get creative with toppings! Sautéed mushrooms, cheese, or a spicy slaw work wonderfully as well.

→ How long do leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftover lentil patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.