Vegan Banana Lentil Muffins Recipe

Ingredients:
1 cup uncooked red lentils
1 cup ripe, mashed banana (about 2 large bananas)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup olive oil
150g whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup fresh blueberries (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook Lentils: Soak red lentils for 30 minutes. Then, cook in water on medium heat for 12-16 minutes until tender. Let them cool to room temperature.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, mashed banana, applesauce, olive oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon.
Combine: Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until combined. If using, fold in blueberries.
Fill Muffin Tray: Grease or line a muffin tray with paper liners. Spoon the batter evenly into the tray.
Bake: Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the tops are crispy and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool: Let the muffins cool before serving. Optionally, sprinkle chocolate chips or additional toppings.