'Meat's Too Expensive!' Vegetarian Burgers

Veggie burgers with a kick! My husband and I are not vegetarians at all, but we're trying to cut down on the amount of chicken and meat we eat because it's so expensive. Lentils do the job here: super cheap, super easy, super tasty! Serve on big buns with tomato slices, onion, ketchup, and avocado instead of mayo!

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Calories: 195 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 egg, beaten
• water to cover
• ½ cup wheat germ
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• ½ cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• ¼ cup vegetable oil, divided
• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped green chile pepper

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Pour enough water into a pot that will cover lentils and wheat germ; bring to a boil. Add lentils and wheat germ, reduce heat, and simmer until lentils are tender, adding more water if needed, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove pot from heat and cool slightly; mash lentil mixture until thick and lumpy.

Step 2

Transfer mashed lentil mixture to a bowl. Mix onion, green bell pepper, mozzarella cheese, egg, green chile pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper into lentil mixture until thoroughly mixed; shape into 8 patties.

Step 3

Heat about 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Lower heat to medium-high and cook 4 patties in the hot oil until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining oil and patties.