Ingredients
2 cups red lentils
1 cup yogurt
4 eggs
2 packs of baking powder (20g total)
1 teaspoon salt
60 ml olive oil
250g halloumi, diced
4 sprigs spring onion, chopped
15 sprigs dill, chopped
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Nigella seeds & sesame seeds, for topping
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F) on upper and lower heat without using the fan setting. - Prepare the Lentil Mixture
Follow the plain lentil bread-making steps, ensuring the lentils are thoroughly cooked and mixed with the yogurt, eggs, baking powder, and salt until smooth. - Add the Flavorful Ingredients
Fold in the diced halloumi, chopped spring onions, dill, and black pepper into the lentil mixture, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. - Prepare the Tray
Grease a baking tray with olive oil and pour the lentil mixture into the tray, spreading it evenly. - Add Toppings
Sprinkle some nigella seeds and sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor. - Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cake to rest for about 30 minutes to cool before slicing. Enjoy with your loved ones! - Bake
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until the cake is firm and golden brown on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a fresh salad or yogurt dip.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
- Add a side of olives or pickled vegetables for an extra tangy touch.
Cooking Tips:
- If you prefer a lighter texture, sift the baking powder into the mixture to avoid lumps.
- You can replace halloumi with feta or another cheese of your choice for a different flavor profile.
- To make it spicier, add chili flakes or chopped fresh chilies to the mixture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Red Lentils: High in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, lentils are great for maintaining digestive health and providing sustained energy.
- Halloumi: Adds a savory and salty flavor while providing calcium and protein.
- Dill & Spring Onion: Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, they add fresh flavors and boost the nutritional value.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: This recipe is perfect for a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten-Free: Lentils serve as a great gluten-free base, so this dish is safe for those avoiding gluten.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 290 kcal
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 13g
- Fiber: 8g
Storage Information:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover lentil cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature (150°C) to maintain the texture and flavor.
- Freezing: You can freeze portions of the cake for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Packed with Protein: The combination of red lentils and halloumi provides a great protein boost, making it a filling dish.
- Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or as a healthy snack.
- Flavorful and Nutritious: The fresh herbs, cheese, and spices give this cake a wonderful flavor while providing essential vitamins and minerals.
- Great for Sharing: This savory cake is ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, ensuring there’s enough for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different type of lentil?
- Red lentils are best for this recipe due to their quick cooking time, but you could try using yellow lentils or split peas with similar results.
- What if I don’t have halloumi?
- You can substitute feta or mozzarella cheese if halloumi is unavailable.
- Can I add more vegetables to the cake?
- Yes! Grated zucchini, carrots, or spinach would make great additions to the mixture.
- Is this dish suitable for freezing?
- Yes, you can freeze the cooked lentil cake. Wrap portions tightly and store for up to 1 month.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- To make this dish vegan, replace the eggs with flax or chia seeds, use a plant-based yogurt, and omit the cheese or use a vegan alternative.
- What can I serve with this lentil cake?
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, yogurt, or a fresh tomato salsa for a light and refreshing touch.
- Do I need to soak the lentils beforehand?
- No soaking is necessary for red lentils. Just rinse them well before cooking.
- How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
- The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Can I use different herbs in this recipe?
- Feel free to substitute dill with parsley, cilantro, or thyme based on your preference.
- How can I make the cake spicier?
- Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped chili to the batter for a spicy kick!
Enjoy!
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