Savory, protein-rich bites with lentils, peanuts, aromatics, and lime. Ideal for snacking or appetizers.
# What you need:
→ Lentils
01 - 1 cup dried red lentils
02 - 2 cups water
→ Aromatics
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small shallot, finely chopped
05 - 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
→ Vegetables
06 - 1 small carrot, grated
07 - 2 green onions, finely sliced
→ Binding & Flavor
08 - 1/2 cup roasted unsalted peanuts, chopped
09 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
10 - 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
11 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
12 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
13 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
14 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
15 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
→ Cooking
17 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying or brushing)
# How to Make It:
01 - Rinse lentils thoroughly, place in a saucepan with water, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until soft and water is absorbed. Allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils with garlic, shallot, ginger, carrot, green onions, peanuts, cilantro, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, ground cumin, salt, and chili flakes. Mix together until the mixture is cohesive and sticky.
03 - Using damp hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls and gently flatten each ball into a bite-sized patty, yielding approximately 20 pieces.
04 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry bites for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden and crisp. For a baked alternative, arrange bites on a parchment-lined tray, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
05 - Serve bites warm accompanied by fresh lime wedges or sweet chili dipping sauce.
