Indulge in the heartiness of Classic Lentil Meatballs, a nourishing and flavorful dish that proves you don’t need meat to savor the essence of comfort food. These meatballs are crafted from red lentils, packed with protein and fiber, and spiced with a medley of aromatic flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply seeking a wholesome meal option, these lentil meatballs are a delightful alternative to traditional meat-based dishes. Ready in just 20 minutes, they offer a quick and nutritious option for those seeking a plant-based culinary adventure.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups red lentils, cooked and rinsed
- 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons walnuts, ground
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed, ground
- 2 teaspoons nutritional yeast
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, pressed
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill weed, chopped
- Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Preparations:
Cook and rinse the red lentils, and gather all the necessary ingredients for crafting the delicious lentil meatballs.
Instructions:
Crafting the Lentil Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked red lentils, whole-wheat flour, baking powder, ground walnuts, flaxseed, nutritional yeast, chopped onion, pressed garlic, tomato paste, fresh parsley, fresh dill weed, sea salt, ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. This mixture forms the foundation of the meatballs, bringing together flavors, textures, and nutrients.
- Thoroughly combine the ingredients to create a cohesive mixture that can be shaped into meatballs.
Air Frying the Lentil Meatballs:
- Select the “Air Fry” function on your air fryer and adjust the temperature to 400 degrees F. Press the “Start” key to initiate preheating.
- Line the air fryer oven pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Shape the lentil mixture into equal-sized balls and place them on the parchment-lined air fryer oven perforated pan. Ensure that the meatballs are arranged in a single layer to facilitate even cooking.
- Air fry the lentil meatballs for approximately 15 minutes or until they are cooked through and boast a golden exterior.
Savoring the Plant-Based Goodness:
- Once the lentil meatballs are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate.
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 305
- Fat: 10.5g
- Carbs: 40.4g
- Protein: 17.1g
- Sugars: 5.5g
- Fiber: 12g
Classic Lentil Meatballs offer a glimpse into the world of plant-based cuisine that is both nourishing and indulgent. With a nutrient-rich base of red lentils and an array of complementary ingredients, these meatballs redefine comfort food. Their hearty texture, combined with the medley of flavors from onion, garlic, and aromatic herbs, creates a symphony of taste that appeals to both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
What sets these lentil meatballs apart is their versatility. They can be served as a delightful appetizer, the centerpiece of a meal, or even as a protein-rich addition to pasta dishes. The inclusion of whole-wheat flour, ground walnuts, and flaxseed contributes to the meatballs’ heartiness and nutrition, ensuring that each bite is not only delicious but also satiating.
Air frying these lentil meatballs ensures that they are cooked to perfection, achieving a desirable crispness on the outside while maintaining a tender and flavorful interior. This cooking method minimizes the need for excess oil, making these meatballs a health-conscious choice.
As you savor these Classic Lentil Meatballs, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body with the benefits of plant-based nutrition. Their generous protein and fiber content, combined with a variety of vitamins and minerals, make them a wholesome addition to your diet.
In conclusion, Classic Lentil Meatballs exemplify how plant-based eating can be both satisfying and delectable. These meatballs showcase the potential of ingredients like red lentils to shine in the culinary world. Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or an adventurous food enthusiast, these lentil meatballs offer a delightful journey into a realm of flavors, textures, and nourishment that leave you feeling both fulfilled and inspired.
