Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies Recipe - Delicious and Healthy

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies are a unique and delicious treat that combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the sweetness of raisins and honey. These cookies are perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, as they are packed with protein and fiber from the lentils. The warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add a cozy touch to these cookies, making them perfect for fall or winter baking.

History

The idea of using lentils in cookies may seem unconventional, but lentils have been used in baking for centuries in various cultures around the world. Lentils are a versatile ingredient that can add a nutty flavor and a soft texture to baked goods. In this recipe, lentils are cooked until tender and then mixed with a blend of spices and other ingredients to create a unique and flavorful cookie.

Ingredients

0.75 cup lentils, uncooked
1.5 cup water
0.5 cup egg substitute (equivalent to 2 eggs)
0.5 cup honey
0.25 cup diet margarine (suitable for baking)
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.33 cup canned pumpkin
0.5 cup unbleached flour
1.5 cup whole wheat flour
0.25 tsp salt
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp nutmeg
0.25 tsp ginger
0.25 tsp orange peel
1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
0.5 cup raisins
nonstick cooking spray

How to prepare

Rinse the lentils and combine them with water in a pan.
Bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Drain off any excess liquid.
Meanwhile, beat the egg substitute in a medium-sized bowl.
Add the honey and margarine to the bowl and cream them together until smooth.
Next, add the vanilla, pumpkin, and cooked lentils to the bowl.
In a large bowl, combine the flours, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and orange peel.
Add the lentil mixture to the large bowl and mix everything together well.
Fold in the walnuts and raisins.
Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto a cookie sheet that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the unbleached and whole wheat flours.
You can swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a different flavor profile.
Add in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweeter twist on these cookies.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the lentils before cooking them to remove any dirt or debris.

- Make sure to cook the lentils until they are tender, but not mushy. They should still hold their shape when mixed into the cookie dough.

- For a chewier cookie, you can increase the amount of raisins or add in other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots.

- These cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee as a mid-morning or afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter or as a dessert option for a fall or winter gathering.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the lentils until they are tender but not mushy. This will ensure that they hold their shape when mixed into the cookie dough.

- When mixing the wet and dry ingredients together, be careful not to overmix the dough. This can result in tough cookies.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have canned pumpkin on hand, you can use mashed sweet potato or butternut squash as a substitute.

- You can use regular butter in place of the diet margarine if you prefer.

- If you don't have honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for an even tastier cookie.

Presentation Ideas

These cookies can be served on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra special touch. You can also stack them in a cookie jar for a cute and convenient way to store them.

Pairing Recommendations

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies pair well with a hot cup of chai tea or a spiced latte. They also go well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies contains approximately 200 calories. These cookies are a satisfying and nutritious snack that won't break the calorie bank.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling our daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies contains approximately 8 grams of fat. The fat in these cookies comes from the walnuts and margarine, which provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies contains approximately 5 grams of protein. The protein in these cookies comes from the lentils, which are a great plant-based source of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies are a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin E. Iron is important for oxygen transport in the body, magnesium is essential for muscle and nerve function, and vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Alergens

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies contain eggs, nuts (walnuts), and wheat (flour). They may also contain traces of soy if the margarine used contains soy. Please be mindful of these allergens if you have any dietary restrictions.

Summary

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies are a nutritious and delicious treat that is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are a great alternative to traditional cookies and are perfect for those looking for a healthier sweet treat option.

Summary

Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies are a unique and flavorful treat that is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, these cookies are a nutritious and delicious option for any time of day. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and satisfying snack.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind, even after all these years. It was a hot summer day when I stumbled upon it, while rummaging through an old recipe book that had been tucked away in the back of my pantry for ages. The pages were yellowed and faded, but as soon as I saw the title "Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies," I knew I had unearthed a hidden gem.

I had never heard of such a unique combination of ingredients before - lentils in a cookie? It seemed strange and intriguing all at once. As I read through the recipe, I discovered that the lentils were cooked and mashed before being added to the dough, giving the cookies a chewy texture and a nutty flavor. The addition of raisins and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg only added to the complexity of this unexpected treat.

I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients and preparing the dough. As I mixed the lentil puree with the flour, sugar, and spices, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. I was transported back to my childhood, watching my own grandmother bake in the kitchen as she shared stories of her own culinary adventures. It was in that moment that I realized the true power of a recipe - not just as a set of instructions, but as a vessel for memories and traditions to be passed down through generations.

As the cookies baked in the oven, the sweet scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, mingling with the savory aroma of the lentils. When they emerged golden brown and fragrant, I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. The first bite was a revelation - the cookies were soft and chewy, with a subtle sweetness from the raisins and a hint of warmth from the spices. They were unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made these Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies countless times, each batch evoking memories of that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe. I have shared them with friends and family, who have all been pleasantly surprised by the unexpected combination of flavors and textures. And with each bite, I am reminded of the power of a simple recipe to bring joy and connection to those who share in its creation.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary traditions that have been passed down to me. I am grateful for the knowledge and expertise of those who came before me, and for the opportunity to continue their legacy through the simple act of baking. And most of all, I am grateful for the delicious, comforting, and utterly unique Raisin Spice Lentil Cookies that have become a beloved part of my own cooking repertoire.