Vegetarian Lentil Balls in Tomato Sauce

2 servings

35 minutes

Vegetarian lentil balls in tomato sauce are a true embodiment of Indian cuisine, filled with the aroma of spices and depth of flavor. Lentils, the base of the dish, give the balls a tender texture and richness, while the combination of garam masala, garlic, and pine nuts reveals its spicy character. Baked in tomato sauce with basil, they acquire a rich sweet-sour note that perfectly complements the softness of the lentil balls. Historically, such dishes emerged as an alternative to meat in vegetarian Indian diets, offering a hearty and nutritious treat. These balls are perfect as a standalone dish complemented by fresh herbs and naan bread or as part of a complex Indian dinner. Their softness and rich flavor make them a favorite among lovers of spicy, aromatic cuisine.

Energy value per serving

• Calories: 605
• Proteins: 23.5g
• Fats: 28.9g
• Carbohydrates: 59.3g

Ingredients

• Green-brown lentils: 150 g
• Onion: 1 head
• Tomatoes in their own juice: 1 jar
• Garlic: 3 clove
• Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Garam masala: 2 tsp
• Salt: to taste
• Pine nuts: 1 tbsp
• White cabbage: 30 g
• Ground flax seeds: 1 tbsp

Cooking steps

1. Soak the lentils overnight or for 4 hours, then cook until soft. Then blend into a smooth paste.

   Required ingredients:

   • Green-brown lentils: 150 g

2. Sauté onion, garlic, and cabbage in a pan with a tablespoon of olive oil until softened. Add garam masala spice mix (I used Sabji Masala for vegetables) and pine nuts (can be replaced with other nuts like cashews).

   Required ingredients:

   • Onion: 1 head
   • Garlic: 3 cloves
   • White cabbage: 30 g
   • Garam masala: 2 teaspoons
   • Pine nuts: 1 tablespoon

3. Combine the onion-garlic-cabbage mixture with lentils. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, ground flaxseeds, and blend until a puree-like consistency is achieved. Check the lentil mixture for spices and, if needed, add salt, pepper, or more garam masala. Form into balls and place in a baking dish.

   Required ingredients:

   • Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons
   • Ground flax seeds: 1 tablespoon
   • Salt:  to taste
   • Garam masala: 2 teaspoons

4. Now we prepare the tomato sauce. In a heated pan with olive oil, we add tomatoes in juice. We add favorite herbs, such as dried basil. Stirring, we cook for about 2-3 minutes.

   Required ingredients:

   • Extra virgin olive oil: 2 tablespoons
   • Tomatoes in their own juice: 1 jar
   • Salt:  to taste

5. Pour the sauce into the mold with the balls and put it in the oven for 20 minutes