Lentil Burger

Soak the lentils for 2 hours in enough warm water to cover by 3 inches. Rinse and drain thoroughly when done.

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray down with non-stick spray.

In a food processor, add the previously soaked/drained red lentils, garlic, red onion, carrots, tomato paste, salt and pepper and pulse. Pour the mixture into a bowl and add the panko crumbs in and mix well. The mixture should be able to hold together, if it is too wet, add a bit more panko crumbs. Grab some of the mixture, about ½ cup, and form a disc onto the parchment paper.

Bake: Bake the patties for 20 minutes total, flipping once halfway, until crispy on both sides.

Pan fry: Heat enough oil to reach hallway up the sides of the patties. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy. Add on a paper towel lined plate.

Serve on a salad, bun, deli bread, or alone.