Lentil sticks, onion rings, and balsamic vinegar spaghetti

Lentil sticks with onion rings and balsamic vinegar spaghetti

If you wish to explore a recipe that combines crunchy textures with intense flavors and a touch of originality, then you have come to the right place. This recipe for lentil sticks with fried onion rings and balsamic vinegar spaghetti is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a culinary adventure that will captivate you from the first bite. I propose we venture together into this process, discover the secrets of preparing each element, and enjoy an exceptional final result.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Key ingredients

1. Onion rings
- Flour
- Oil
- Water
- Salt
- Cornstarch

2. Lentil sticks
- Lentils
- Breadcrumbs
- Flour
- Salt
- Oil
- Eggs
- Onion
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Coriander
- Cornmeal (for coating)

3. Balsamic vinegar spaghetti
- 200 ml balsamic vinegar
- 100 ml soy sauce
- 4 g agar-agar

A brief history

Lentil sticks are a tasty and healthy alternative to meat products, being rich in protein and fiber. Lentils are a traditional ingredient used for thousands of years in various culinary cultures for their versatility and nutritional benefits. The onion rings are a perfect accompaniment to add crunch and a sweet-sour flavor, while the balsamic vinegar spaghetti provides an elegant and sophisticated touch to the dish. This recipe is ideal for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to try something new.

Preparation steps

Step 1: Preparing the onion rings

1. Start by peeling the onion and slicing it into thin rings. A medium onion should be sufficient to add an intense flavor.

2. In a bowl, combine the flour, water, oil, salt, and cornstarch. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous batter that should not be too thick or too thin.

3. Heat the oil in a deep pan. The oil should be hot enough to fry the onion rings without soaking them in grease.

4. Coat the onion rings in the batter, then fry them in the hot oil until they become golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 2: Preparing the lentil sticks

1. Soak the lentils in cold water for 4-5 hours. This step is essential to ensure a smooth texture and even cooking.

2. After soaking, boil the lentils in water for 20-30 minutes until they become soft. Drain the lentils and let them cool.

3. Blend the cooked lentils or pass them through a meat grinder. Add breadcrumbs, flour, salt, eggs, chopped onion, crushed garlic, parsley, and coriander. Mix well until you obtain a uniform paste.

4. Shape the paste into sticks or patties, then coat them in cornmeal. This step will give a crunchy texture on the outside.

5. Fry the sticks in hot oil until they become golden and crispy. Make sure the oil temperature is constant to avoid sticking to the pan.

Step 3: Preparing the balsamic vinegar spaghetti

1. In a container, mix the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and agar-agar. Agar-agar is a natural gelling agent, perfect for creating the desired texture.

2. Place the container on the heat and warm the mixture until it reaches 80 degrees Celsius, stirring continuously. This step is crucial for activating the gelatin.

3. Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, let it cool. Then, you can use a syringe or a special device to form the spaghetti.

Step 4: Assembling the dish

1. On each plate, place a serving of lentil sticks, add the fried onion rings, and finish with the balsamic vinegar spaghetti.

2. Serve this dish alongside a simple cabbage salad, with a little salt, oil, and optionally, pepper. This will add freshness and perfectly complement the intense flavors.

Useful tips

- Make sure the oil is well heated before frying the onion rings. If the temperature is too low, they will soak up grease.
- You can experiment with various spices in the lentil stick mixture, such as cumin or paprika, to add a personalized touch.
- If you want to reduce calories, you can opt to bake the sticks instead of frying. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake until golden.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of lentils?
Of course! Green or red lentils can be used, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What other ingredients can I add to the sticks?
Add grated vegetables or spices to customize the recipe.

3. How can I store the balsamic vinegar spaghetti?
They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a few days.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This lentil stick recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, beneficial for digestion and heart health. One serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used for frying.

In conclusion, this recipe for lentil sticks with onion rings and balsamic vinegar spaghetti will delight you with every bite. Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to share your culinary experience with friends!