Lentil Burgers

There’s something deeply satisfying about preparing for Sabbath—clearing the counters, soaking the grains, washing the greens, and chopping vegetables with a quiet joy, knowing that you’re preparing not just a meal, but a moment of peace, reflection, and rest. This past week during our Plant-Based Cooking on a Budget session, one recipe stole the show: Lentil Burgers. Budget-friendly, protein-packed, and full of flavor, these burgers are more than just a meat alternative—they’re a wholesome, nourishing comfort food that bring families together around the table.

As a plant-based nutritionist, lifestyle coach, and Sabbath observer, I’m always looking for meals that are not only nourishing but practical—especially for those trying to feed their families on a tight budget. Lentils are one of the most affordable superfoods around. They’re rich in protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins, and they cook quickly, making them a favorite in my kitchen.

Why Lentils?

Let’s start with the basics. Lentils are small but mighty legumes. A one-cup serving of cooked lentils contains about 18 grams of protein and 15 grams of fiber—making them a powerful food for energy, digestion, and satiety. They’re also packed with essential nutrients like folate, iron, magnesium, and zinc, which help support a strong immune system and promote healthy blood sugar levels.

For those managing diabetes or aiming for weight loss, lentils are an ideal staple. They’re low in fat, have a low glycemic index, and help keep you feeling full longer—reducing the urge to snack unnecessarily between meals. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with herbs and spices to create savory, satisfying dishes.

Budget-Friendly and Flavor-Filled

One of the beauties of this recipe is how far it stretches. A single pound of dry lentils can yield up to 6 cups of cooked lentils, which is enough to make at least 12–14 hearty burgers. With a few pantry staples—like oats, onions, garlic, and a handful of spices—you can whip up a meal that feeds your family without draining your budget.

These lentil burgers cost a fraction of store-bought vegan patties and are free from preservatives, excess sodium, and fillers. You control the ingredients, the flavor, and the freshness.

Here’s a little breakdown to show how cost-effective this meal is:
• 1 cup dry lentils – about $1
• 1 cup oats – about $0.50
• 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic – around $0.75
• Seasonings – pennies per portion
• Optional add-ins (like bell peppers, grated carrots, or fresh herbs) – less than $1
• Yield: 8–10 burgers for about $3.25 total!

Compare that to just one vegan patty from the store that can cost $3–$5 alone. These homemade lentil burgers are a budget-conscious cook’s dream.

Sabbath Meal Ready

Sabbath prep isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating a meal that allows you to rest. These lentil burgers are perfect for preparing ahead. You can make them on Friday morning or afternoon, shape them, and either bake, grill, or pan-sear them to enjoy hot—or store them to reheat later. They also freeze well, making them a wonderful batch-cook item for those who want to prep several meals in advance.

Pair these burgers with a simple steamed green like callaloo or kale, and serve alongside baked or air-fried plantain fries for a complete meal that honors both health and the Sabbath rhythm.

Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages

One of the highlights of our cooking session was seeing how much both adults and kids enjoyed these burgers. They’re savory, satisfying, and can be customized easily with different seasonings. Want a smoky BBQ burger? Add liquid smoke and a dash of BBQ sauce. Craving something more Mediterranean? Try oregano, lemon zest, and garlic powder. The flavor possibilities are endless.

During the demo, we also discussed how to get children involved in shaping the patties—a fun and educational kitchen activity that helps them feel invested in what they eat. And when kids help make it, they’re more likely to eat it!

Nourishing Body and Soul

Food isn’t just fuel—it’s a way to connect, to care, and to worship. In preparing for Sabbath, I’m reminded of how God provided manna for His people, enough for each day, and double on the sixth so they could rest. When I prepare lentil burgers and plantain fries for Sabbath, I’m participating in that rhythm of provision and rest. I’m feeding my body, honoring my budget, and preparing my heart for peace.

To all of you who are seeking to eat better, spend wisely, and keep the Sabbath with joy: let this recipe be one more tool in your journey. You don’t have to break the bank to eat well. You just need simple ingredients, a willing heart, and a desire to do something better—for your health, your home, and your faith.

There are so many other burger recipes here to please you:

Oat Burgers

Veggie-burger meatloaf 

Black Bean Burgers