Description
These Lentil Protein Crackers are a simple, healthy, and gluten-free snack made with just three main ingredients: lentils, nuts or seeds, and baking powder. Perfectly crispy and packed with protein, these crackers are easy to prepare and make a great savory snack or accompaniment to dips.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3/4 cup dried lentils (any variety, such as tan, red, or green lentils)
- 60 grams nuts or seeds of choice (between 1/3 to 1/2 cup)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (certified gluten-free, as needed)
- Optional: 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon salt
Liquids
- Boiling water for soaking
- 1 1/2 cups fresh water (for blending)
Instructions
- Soak lentils and nuts/seeds: Place the lentils and nuts or seeds in a medium bowl. Cover them with boiling water and let them soak for 20 minutes. After soaking, drain the mixture through a sieve or colander and discard the soaking water.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet (an 18x13 inch half sheet pan works well) with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Blend the mixture: In a blender, combine the drained lentil and nut mixture with 1 1/2 cups of fresh water. Blend until completely smooth. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed, then add the baking powder and optional salt and blend again until fully incorporated.
- Spread batter: Pour the smooth batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Lift and tilt the baking sheet to evenly spread and cover the surface completely with the batter.
- Bake first round: Bake the batter in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, allowing it to set and begin to cook through.
- Cut into crackers: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a knife or a pastry scraper, carefully cut the baked sheet into rectangles or squares. The recipe suggests cutting into 8 rows by 8 rows, making 64 crackers in total.
- Bake again for crispiness: Return the cut crackers to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes until they are golden brown, crispy, dry, and firm to the touch.
- Remove and check doneness: Take out all the crackers that look done and crispy. If some crackers need more baking, leave them on the baking sheet and return to the oven for a few more minutes until all crackers reach the desired crispiness.
- Cool before serving: Allow the crackers to cool completely on a wire rack or the baking sheet. Cooling helps them firm up further and enhances their crisp texture.
Notes
- Use any variety of dried lentils you prefer, such as tan, red, or green lentils.
- Nuts or seeds can be varied based on preference; almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or walnuts work great.
- Use certified gluten-free baking powder if you require a gluten-free snack.
- Adjust salt amount based on taste or dietary needs.
- Ensure crackers are fully dry and firm before storing to retain their crispness.
- Store crackers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (including soaking time)
- Cook Time: 55 minutes (20 minutes first bake + 30-35 minutes second bake)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Healthy
