Mini Lentil-Scallion Pancakes with Cumin Cream

These delectable crunchy cakes may be easier to make into round shapes with more egg and flour, but they’ll be softer – you decide.

Serves 8

INGREDIENTS:

For the Pancakes:

• 1 cup brown lentils, boiled until soft but not broken
• 3 scallions, chopped fine
• 1 tablespoon curry powder, toasted in a dry pan until fragrant
• Pinch of cayenne
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro or parsley
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk or water
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons olive oil for frying

For the Cumin Cream:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds, toasted in a dry pan, then ground (or 2 teaspoons ground cumin, toasted in a dry pan until fragrant)

INSTRUCTIONS:

For the Pancakes:

1. Gently combine lentils, scallions, curry, cayenne, salt, and cilantro or parsley in a mixing bowl.
2. Mix in the beaten egg and milk or water with your hands, and dust with enough flour to form a cohesive batter.
3. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet until hot, but not smoky. A bit of the batter should sizzle when placed in the oil.
4. Drop teaspoonfuls of batter into the pan; flatten them out and shape them into round cakes with the back of the spoon. Some lentils may fall away, but the cakes will stick together once they’re cooked. Leave at least 1 inch of space between cakes.
5. Fry 2–3 minutes per side, until lightly browned and crisp. Drain on paper towels.

For the Cumin Cream:

1. Whisk together the sour cream and cumin.
2. Arrange the lentil cakes on a serving platter, and top each with a dollop of cumin cream.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• These mini lentil-scallion pancakes with cumin cream make for a delightful appetizer or snack. Serve them as hors d’oeuvres at parties or as a unique and flavorful side dish at your next gathering. Enjoy the fusion of spices and textures in this delectable dish!

TIPS:

• You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less cayenne to the pancake batter.
• Feel free to garnish with additional chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch.
• Serve these pancakes hot for the best flavor and texture.

These recipes offer a diverse array of dips and appetizers that can elevate your culinary experiences. From creamy hummus to zesty guacamole and crunchy lentil pancakes, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking to enjoy some unique and flavorful snacks, these recipes have you covered.

Experiment with different serving options, such as pairing dips with pita bread, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your garnishes and seasonings to make these dishes truly your own.

We hope these recipes add a touch of excitement to your dining table and inspire you to explore the world of appetizers and dips. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, these recipes are sure to impress and satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the delicious flavors of these fantastic dips and appetizers. Enjoy!