Indulge in the delicious fusion of textures and flavors with Bulgur and Lentil Croquettes. This recipe offers a delightful blend of hearty bulgur and protein-rich red lentils, resulting in a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Croquettes have a way of bringing together the essence of comfort food and innovative cooking, and this recipe is no exception. With the added benefits of fiber and essential nutrients, these croquettes are a testament to the versatility of plant-based ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups bulgur, cooked and rinsed
- 1 cup red lentils, cooked or boiled
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 medium red beet, shredded and diced
- 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tahini
Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees F using the “Air Fry” function.
- Prepare a sheet of parchment paper to line the air fryer oven pan. This ensures that the croquettes won’t stick during the cooking process.
Creating the Croquette Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and rinsed bulgur and red lentils. These ingredients form the foundation of the croquette mixture, contributing to its heartiness and protein content.
- Add the breadcrumbs to the mixture, which serve as a binding agent, holding the croquettes together while adding a touch of crunch.
- Incorporate the shredded and diced red beet for a burst of color and subtle sweetness. Beets also add valuable nutrients and antioxidants to the croquettes.
- Toss in the roughly chopped onion and minced garlic, which infuse the croquettes with layers of flavor.
- Season the mixture with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, and chopped thyme. These seasonings enhance the taste profile and provide a gentle kick of spice.
- Drizzle the tahini over the mixture, adding creaminess and a nutty undertone that complements the other ingredients.
Shaping and Air Frying:
- Shape the mixture into equal-sized balls, creating the base for the croquettes. Placing the croquettes in a single layer on the parchment-lined air fryer oven pan.
- Air fry the croquettes for approximately 15 minutes, ensuring they’re cooked through and have achieved a golden-brown exterior.
Serving and Enjoyment:
- Once the croquettes are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as this ensures you can relish the flavors fully.
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 331
- Fat: 5.6g
- Carbs: 56.4g
- Protein: 16.7g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fiber: 11.4g
Bulgur and Lentil Croquettes embody the harmonious union of nutrition and flavor, bringing together plant-based ingredients in a delightful and wholesome manner. These croquettes are more than just a culinary creation; they are a testament to the art of crafting balanced and delicious meals.
The amalgamation of bulgur and red lentils forms the heart of the croquette mixture, contributing to a substantial protein content that satisfies the palate and fuels the body. The addition of breadcrumbs not only aids in binding but also introduces a delightful crunch that complements the tender interior.
The inclusion of shredded red beet offers a vibrant burst of color and an earthy sweetness, elevating the visual appeal and nutritional value of the croquettes. Meanwhile, the combination of onion, garlic, and thyme infuses each bite with layers of aromatic complexity.
Seasonings such as kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper add a harmonious balance of flavors, while the drizzle of tahini imparts a creamy and nutty undertone that takes the croquettes to a new level of deliciousness.
Air frying these croquettes at 400 degrees F results in a beautifully golden-brown exterior that’s inviting and enticing. The cooking process locks in the flavors and ensures that each croquette is evenly cooked throughout.
In conclusion, Bulgur and Lentil Croquettes celebrate the magic that happens when wholesome ingredients come together with creativity and care. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying main dish or a delightful snack, these croquettes are a testament to the potential of plant-based cooking. They embody the fusion of health and indulgence, and with every bite, you’ll experience the joy of nourishing your body and tantalizing your taste buds.
