Red Lentil & Mozzarella Croquettes

This is a wonderful recipe idea by Chef Giorgios Tsoulis, combining the healthy and nutritious value of red lentils with the rich, cheesy flavor of mozzarella! They are a great appetizer or snack and also work well as a light lunch when served together with a salad. Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 300 g red lentils
• 60 ml water
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 120 g cornmeal
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 150 g mozzarella
• 50 g sesame seeds
• salt
• pepper

Instructions

• Soak the lentils in a bowl for 12 hours.
• Preheat the oven to 170°C/340°F, on convection mode.
• In a food processor, blend the lentils with the water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, add the cornmeal and cornstarch, and mix until a pliable dough forms.
• Take 40 g (1 ½ oz) of the dough and shape it into a ball. Press gently in the center, place a piece of mozzarella inside, and reshape it into a ball. Roll the croquette in a small bowl with sesame seeds until completely coated, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat the process for the remaining croquettes.
• Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, let them cool slightly, and serve.