PUMPKIN AND LENTIL BURGER
The Pumpkin and Lentil Burger is a warm and comforting vegan option perfect for cosy meals and hearty cravings. This soft and lightly spiced patty features creamy pumpkin purée paired with earthy brown lentils, offering both nutrition and rich flavour in each bite. Ground oats help bind the ingredients, while a dash of nutmeg adds a subtle depth that highlights the natural sweetness of pumpkin. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in fibre and ideal for lunch or dinner in autumn or any time you crave a wholesome and plant-based alternative. Whether served on a toasted bun, wrapped in lettuce or layered into a grain bowl, this burger makes an easy, satisfying and customizable dish. Quick to prepare and ideal for meal prep, it freezes beautifully and reheats with its structure and taste intact.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch, Dinner, Main Course
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Pan-Fry, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Thanksgiving, Fall, Casual Dinner, Picnic, Halloween
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan, Wheat / Gluten-Free, Healthy, High Fibre, Dairy-Free, Low Fat, Quick & Easy
DISH TYPE
Hamburger
INGREDIENTS
There are following ingredients for Pumpkin and Lentil Burger:
- ¼ cup pumpkin purée
- ¼ cup cooked brown lentils
- 1 tbsp ground oats
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil (for pan-frying)
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 158.8 kcal
- Fat: 5.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrate: 21.6 g
- Sugar: 2.9 g
- Fiber: 6.8 g
- Sodium: 292 mg
- Protein: 6.8 g
- Calcium: 31.8 mg
- Potassium: 352.7 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
PREPARATION
- Combine Pumpkin And Lentils: In a medium mixing bowl, combine pumpkin purée with cooked brown lentils. Mash together until well mixed but still slightly textured.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in ground oats, nutmeg and salt. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Rest The Mixture: Allow the mixture to rest for 3–5 minutes so the oats can absorb moisture and firm up the texture.
- Form The Patty: Using your hands, shape the mixture into a compact patty. If the mixture is too soft, add a small amount of extra oats.
- Heat The Pan: Warm olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Cook The Burger: Place the patty in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and firm. Flip carefully with a spatula.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the hot burger served with your favourite toppings in a bun, wrap or salad bowl.
PREP TIME
6 minutes
COOKING TIME
8 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Pumpkin and Lentil Burger:
- Use Thick Pumpkin Purée: A firmer purée holds the patty together better than a watery one.
- Drain Lentils Well: Too much liquid in the lentils can make the mix soggy. Drain thoroughly after cooking.
- Test Seasoning Before Cooking: Taste and adjust the salt and nutmeg in the raw mix before frying.
- Flip Carefully: The patty is tender, use a thin spatula and flip slowly to maintain its shape.
- Use A Lid: Covering the pan helps to steam the patty slightly, warming it through without burning the exterior.
VARIATIONS
- Add Herbs: Fresh sage, rosemary or thyme pair beautifully with pumpkin and add seasonal flavour.
- Sweet-Spicy Mix: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for contrast against the sweet nuttiness of pumpkin.
- Boost Protein: Stir in a tsp of flaxseed meal or hemp hearts.
- Cheesy Option: Add 1 tbsp nutritional yeast for a savoury and cheesy note.
- Add Seeds: Top the patty with sesame or pumpkin seeds before pan-frying for crunch.
- Bake Instead: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes and flip halfway, for an oil-free version.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Make Ahead: Mix and form the patty, then refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Store Cooked Patties: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze Uncooked Patties: Layer between parchment and freeze in a container. Defrost in the fridge overnight before cooking.
- Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet or 180°C oven for best results. Avoid microwaving for ideal texture.