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Easy Vegetarian Breakfast Savory Red Lentil Pancakes

When I first tried making these savory red lentil pancakes, I wasn’t sure if they’d turn out to be a keeper. But here we are, with a plate stacked high, and I can tell you they’ve become a breakfast favorite in my kitchen. The beauty is in their simplicity—you soak red lentils, blend them smooth, and then fry up golden pancakes that are crisp on the outside and tender inside. This lentil pancakes recipe is the sort of thing that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a little secret in the world of easy red lentil recipes. They fit right in with vegetarian breakfast recipes, vegan breakfast recipes, and those moments when you want something filling without reaching for bread. I like to top mine with a dollop of yogurt and fresh herbs, but they’re just as happy next to scrambled eggs or a bright chutney. If you’ve been searching for a red lentils recipe easy enough for busy mornings, this one delivers. It’s proof that vegetarian recipes breakfast lovers can still enjoy variety, flavor, and a little crunch at the same time. These pancakes are warm, hearty, and they’re the kind of dish that makes you look forward to waking up a little earlier just to get them on the skillet.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Keywords: Easy Vegetarian Breakfast, lentil pancakes recipe, red lentil recipes, red lentils recipe easy, vegan breakfast recipes, Vegetarian Breakfast Recipes, Vegetarian Recipes Breakfast
Servings: 4 pancakes
Author: Kathy

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and soaked 3 hours or overnight
  • 1/2 cup water (for blending)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Drain the soaked lentils and transfer them to a blender with 1/2 cup water. Blend until smooth.
  2. Pour the batter into a mixing bowl and stir in onion, chili, cilantro, cumin seeds, and salt.
  3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.
  4. Scoop about 1/4 cup batter onto the pan and spread gently into a circle.
  5. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until bubbles form and the bottom is golden, then flip and cook the other side.
  6. Repeat with the remaining batter, oiling the pan lightly as needed.
  7. Serve hot with yogurt, chutney, or your favorite breakfast sides.