Lentil Burgers

These burgers are delicious served open-faced on a slice of good toasted bread topped with sliced tomatoes and your favorite salad dressing or salsa.

• Ready In: 2 hrs
• Serves: 4
• Yields: 4-8 burgers, depending on size

Ingredients

• 1  cup dried brown lentils
• 2  cups water
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
•  salt or  pepper
• 1⁄2 tablespoon chili powder (optional)
• 1  tablespoon ketchup
• 1⁄2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 3  garlic cloves
• 1⁄2 bell pepper
• 2  scallions, green and white parts
• 1  celery rib
• 1⁄2 cup pistachios or 1⁄2 cup walnuts
• 1  carrot, shredded
•  cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Put lentils and water in a pot, bring to a boil and then lower heat to a simmer. Simmer lentils until soft and water has been absorbed, adding a little more water if necessary. Stir occasionally.(about 30 min).
2. While lentils are cooking, finely chop the garlic, bell pepper, scallions, celery, and nuts.
3. In a frying pan large enough to hold the veggies, heat the oil over medium heat and saute the nuts and veggies until tender, about 10-15 minute Stir in the salt, pepper and chili powder, if using.
4. Transfer vegetable mixture and cooked lentils to a large bowl. Add the ketchup and mustard.
5. Mix well.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for about an hour.
7. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Lightly oil a baking pan.
8. Form burger mixture into 4 large or 6-8 small patties. Bake them for 30 minutes. If topping with sliced cheese, put it on during the last 2 minutes.