I love a good meatless burger. I also love any curry dish – especially one with lentils!

To take the struggle out of having to pick just one of those things for dinner, I combined them. The result is this mouthwatering burger that’s filled with loads of flavor! Not only is it delicious, it’s also nutritious and great for your digestive health!

DIGESTIVE HEALTH BENEFITS

LENTILS

Lentils are a rich source of L-glutamine. L-glutamine is an amino acid that promotes gut healing, especially with gut inflammation, leaky gut, and ulcers.

CASHEWS

Cashews possess a healthy balance of fats, particularly, omega-3’s. A recent study found that an omega-3 rich diet is beneficial to gut microbiota composition.

OATS

When it comes to digestive health, oats are a great place to start! Half a cup contains 4 grams of fiber (add a handful of raspberries and walnuts for a fiber boost). Your gut microbiota will thank you according to this study.

SAUERKRAUT

Sauerkraut is a popular probiotic food. If you’re looking to improve your digestion and protect or promote the healing of your gut, try incorporating sauerkraut into your diet. Start slow (no more than 2 Tbsp a day) and if purchasing from your local store, be sure to check the label. If you see the word “pasteurized,” put it back on the shelf. This means that everything that was alive in there, i.e. probiotics, were killed by heat. Instead, look for words like “traditionally fermented” or contains “live/active cultures.”

CURRIED LENTIL CASHEW BURGER RECIPE

(Serves 6)

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 c red lentils, rinsed
• 1 c water
• 3/4 c raw cashews
• 6 tsp coconut oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 c mushrooms, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tsp curry powder
• 3 Tbsp water
• 1/2 c old fashioned oats
• 1 c sauerkraut
• 6 large lettuce leaves

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine 1 cup of water, lentils, and a dash of salt in a pot. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat, cover partially and simmer 15-20 minutes, or until lentils are very tender.
3. Place in colander to drain any excess liquid, and set aside to cool.
4. Meanwhile, place cashews in a skillet and toast over medium-high heat for 4 minutes or until fragrant, and then set aside.
5. In the same skillet, saute onion over medium heat with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil until transparent.
6. Add mushrooms, garlic, curry powder, and 3 tablespoons water, and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. Place cashews and lentils in food processor and pulse until textured.
8. Transfer to a bowl, add mushroom mixture, and stir in old fashioned oats until mixed well.
9. Wet hands and form 6 burger patties from mixture.
10. Cook in remaining coconut oil, using it as needed, over medium heat for 4 minutes on each side or until brown and heated throughout.
11. Top it off with sauerkraut, your favorite toppings, and enjoy!

TIPS/SUBSTITUTIONS

• This is a great recipe to make extra of and freeze for later. Just form into individual patties, wrap, and freeze for up to thirty days.
• You can also adjust the curry powder to suit your desired level of spice.

Studies show lentils help prevent heart disease due to their hearty (pun intended) content of fiber, folate, and magnesium. They also replenish iron supplies, a nutrient that is so important for women during their monthly cycle.

Hungry for more? Check out these Marinated Mushrooms With Cashew Cheese or Two Simple Lentil Summer Recipes!