Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Name: Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 1 bunch parsley (chopped); 1 onion (diced); 4 tablespoons psyllium husks (or 1 large egg); 4 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes; 2 bell peppers (chopped); 1/2 cup chickpea flour; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon spicy paprika; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes; Sea salt and ground pepper (to taste); Oil (for frying)

Published: July 21, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Make: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these delicious lentil cakes in no time.
Flavor Packed: The combination of smoked and spicy paprika gives these cakes a unique flavor profile that will satisfy your spicy food cravings.
Healthy Ingredients: Red lentils offer protein and fiber, making these cakes not just tasty but nutritious as well.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them alone, in a wrap, or with your favorite dipping sauce; they adapt to any meal occasion.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re vegan or not, everyone will love these flavorful cakes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick frying pan
Mixing bowl
Fork or vertical blender
Strainer
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick frying pan: Prevents sticking and allows for easy flipping of the lentil cakes.
Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl makes it easier to combine ingredients thoroughly without mess.

Ingredients

These spicy vegan lentil cakes are perfect for satisfying your spicy food cravings! They’re easy to make, protein-rich and have a spicy and smoky flavor!

For the Cakes

1 cup red lentils
1 bunch parsley (chopped)
1 onion (diced)
4 Tbsps psyllium husks (or one large egg)
4 Tbsps nutritional yeast flakes
2 bell peppers (I used one red and one yellow, chopped)
1/2 cup flour (I used some chickpea flour)
2 tsps smoked paprika
1 tsp spicy paprika
1/2 tsp chili flakes
sea salt and ground pepper (to taste)
oil (for frying)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

Add lentils in a pot and cover them with water. From the moment they start boiling, let them boil for about 15 minutes and then remove from heat.

Step 2: Strain and Mash

Strain the lentils very well and put them in a large bowl. Start mashing them using a fork or a vertical blender. Add the rest of the ingredients, except oil.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Start mixing the composition. It has to be sticky and easy to shape. If it’s not, it means that you didn’t strain the lentils very well and the composition is too wet. No problem; just add more flour until it has a dough-like consistency. Alternatively, let it rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Fry the Cakes

Spray a non-stick pan with some oil—just enough for frying. Put each patty on the frying pan and let it fry about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Enjoy your homemade Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes warm!

How to Serve Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

These spicy vegan lentil cakes are versatile and can be served in several delicious ways. Whether you want a light snack or a hearty meal, these cakes fit perfectly into various dishes.

With Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: Pair the lentil cakes with a vibrant mixed green salad, topped with your favorite dressing.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad complements the spiciness of the cakes beautifully.

In a Wrap

Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps, adding avocado and salsa for extra flavor.
Whole Wheat Tortilla: Roll the lentil cakes in a whole wheat tortilla with hummus and veggies for a filling lunch.

As an Appetizer

Dipping Sauce: Serve the lentil cakes with a spicy dipping sauce, like sriracha or tahini, for a great starter.
Mini Sliders: Create mini sliders using small buns and add toppings like pickles and vegan mayo.

How to Perfect Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

To ensure your spicy vegan lentil cakes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

Bold Straining: Make sure to strain the lentils well after boiling to avoid excess moisture in your mixture.
Bold Consistency Check: The mixture should be sticky but manageable; if it’s too wet, add more flour gradually.
Bold Patting Technique: Shape the patties evenly for consistent cooking and frying.
Bold Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot before adding the patties to achieve that crispy exterior.
Bold Rest Time: Letting the mixture sit in the fridge can help firm it up, making it easier to shape.
Bold Flavor Boosting: Experiment with additional spices or herbs according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Pairing side dishes with spicy vegan lentil cakes enhances their flavor and makes for a complete meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumber adds freshness to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs for added nutrition.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast to the spice of the lentil cakes.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots can balance out the heat nicely.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs can serve as a hearty base for your lentil cakes.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is perfect for dipping or spreading on warm bread served alongside.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making spicy vegan lentil cakes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your lentil cakes turn out perfectly.

Not Straining Lentils Properly: If you don’t strain the cooked lentils well, your mixture may turn out too wet. To avoid this, ensure you remove excess water before mashing.
Skipping the Resting Time: Some cooks skip letting the mixture rest in the fridge. This can lead to difficulty shaping the patties. Always allow it to chill for 10-15 minutes if it feels too sticky.
Using the Wrong Flour: Using flour that doesn’t bind well can affect the consistency of your cakes. Stick with chickpea or all-purpose flour for optimal results.
Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many patties in the pan at once can cause uneven cooking. Fry them in batches to achieve a nice golden crust on each cake.
Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each person’s taste varies, so don’t hesitate to adjust spices and salt according to your preference before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store your spicy vegan lentil cakes in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent any odors from affecting their flavor.

Freezing Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Duration: You can freeze these cakes for up to 3 months.
Containers: Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap before storing.

Reheating Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Use medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. Make sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make spicy vegan lentil cakes gluten-free?

You can easily make these spicy vegan lentil cakes gluten-free by substituting regular flour with chickpea flour or another gluten-free alternative.

Can I add more vegetables to my spicy vegan lentil cakes?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How spicy are these spicy vegan lentil cakes?

The spice level depends on your preferences. The recipe includes chili flakes and paprika, but you can adjust these ingredients according to your heat tolerance.

What do spicy vegan lentil cakes pair well with?

These delicious lentil cakes go well with avocado, salsa, or a refreshing salad. They also make great burger replacements in sandwiches!

Final Thoughts

Spicy vegan lentil cakes are not only flavorful but also packed with protein and nutrients. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily by adding different spices or vegetables. Try this recipe at home and enjoy a delightful dish perfect for any occasion!