Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Recipe of the Week: Lentil Fritter Pitas with Red Cabbage Slaw

Lentil Fritter Pitas with Red Cabbage Slaw
From Real Simple



30 Ounces cooked lentils (or 2 cans, but I couldn't find the cans) 
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, plus more for serving
1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1/2 cup bread crumbs
Kosher salt and black pepper
1/4 head red cabbage, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper, plus more for serving 
4 pocket-less pitas, warmed

In a food processor, puree 1 can of the lentils with the cilantro, parsley, and garlic until nearly smooth. Transfer to a bowl and mix in the bread crumbs, the remaining can of lentils, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Form into sixteen 1/2-inch-thick patties.

In a large bowl, using a wooden spoon, lightly mash the cabbage with the lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of the oil, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and black pepper; set aside. In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, crushed red pepper, and 1/4 cup water. (When I made it I just put the plain yogurt on it and sprinkled the red pepper)

Heat 1 tablespoon of the remaining oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Working in 2 batches, cook the patties until browned, 3 to 4 minutes per side, adding the remaining tablespoon of the oil to the skillet for the second batch.

Dividing evenly, top each pita with the patties, cabbage mixture, yogurt sauce, and the additional cilantro and crushed red pepper. 

For a change of pace, form the lentil mixture into 4 large patties, cook in oil until browned, and serve on buns with your desired toppings.