Protein-Packed Spiced Lentil Quinoa Sausages 🌶️☀️
Ingredients:
1 cup red lentils (200g), rinsed
½ cup quinoa (90g), rinsed
2 ½ cups vegetable broth (600ml)
½ cup finely chopped onion (75g)
¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (15g)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried sage
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, savory flavor)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1-2 tablespoons rolled oats (optional, to thicken)
Directions:
1. In a saucepan, combine red lentils, quinoa, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils and quinoa are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Let the mixture cool slightly.
2. Transfer the cooked lentil-quinoa mixture to a large bowl and mash it gently with a fork or potato masher, leaving some texture.
3. Stir in the chopped onion, parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, dried sage, cayenne pepper (if using), nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper.
4. Mix everything thoroughly until combined. If the mixture is too wet, add 1-2 tablespoons of rolled oats or breadcrumbs (if not gluten-free) to achieve a thicker consistency.
5. Shape approximately ¼ cup of the mixture into sausage patties. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
6. Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausages for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides, like avocado, a light salad, or a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories per Serving: 300 kcal
Number of Servings: 6
The addition of nutritional yeast brings a cheesy umami flavor that makes these sausages even more savory! Enjoy them as part of a wholesome, plant-based breakfast or lunch.