Crispy Spiced Lentil Fritters with Mango Salsa: A Vegetarian Delight!

Here's a delightful recipe for crispy spiced lentil fritters served with a refreshing mango salsa, perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or even a satisfying main course!

Ingredients:

For the Fritters:

1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed

1 cup vegetable broth

1/2 red onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon curry powder

1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

1/2 cup chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Mango Salsa:

1 ripe mango, diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Sauté the aromatics: While the lentils cool, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced red onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Mash the lentils: In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils using a potato masher or fork. You can leave some texture if desired.

Combine the fritter mixture: To the mashed lentils, add the sautéed onion mixture, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, coriander, curry powder, chili powder (if using), chickpea flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

Form the fritters: Shape the lentil mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.

Pan-fry the fritters: Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the lentil patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Make the mango salsa: While the fritters cook, combine diced mango, red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, jalapeno pepper (if using), salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.

Serve: Enjoy the crispy lentil fritters warm with a refreshing mango salsa on the side. You can also serve with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.

Tips:

To make the fritters gluten-free, ensure you use chickpea flour.

Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder for your desired level of spice.

For a more vibrant salsa, add a dash of red bell pepper.

By following this recipe, you'll create delicious and healthy lentil fritters bursting with warm spices, perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy mango salsa. Enjoy!