Black Walnut & Lentil Burgers

Black Walnut and Lentil Burgers

            3/4 cup black walnuts* (or regular ones)
            3/4 cup lentils*
            1/3 cup quick oatmeal
            1 tsp ground cumin*
            2 tsp ground coriander*
            1 finely diced jalapeno* or 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
            3 cloves garlic*, minced
            dash of salt and pepper
            1 tbsp olive oil
            1 tbsp ground chia seed or flax seed*
            1/4 cup water

        *grown in Nanabush Food Forests

Preheat oven to 350F. In a small bowl mix the chia or flax with the 1/4 cup water and set aside. Place lentils in a small pot and add a couple cups of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 25 minutes. Remove and rinse in colander. While the lentils are cooking, toast walnuts at 350F for 5-10 minutes. Let cool. In a food processor, process the garlic, walnuts, oatmeal, garlic, spices & seasonings until combined. Now add oil and lentils and pulse until coarsely chopped (some lentils should be visible and left chunky). Add the flax or chia mixture and pulse a bit more until combined. Now shape 4 patties with hands and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment or a non-stick mat. Bake at 350F for 20 minutes on each side for a total of 40 mins.  Less baking time is needed if shaping into smaller patties or balls.