Crispy & Wholesome Lentil Potato Patties: Your Ultimate Guide to a Healthy, Budget-Friendly Meal
Discover the delightful taste and incredible versatility of these homemade lentil potato patties. With a perfectly crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, these plant-based powerhouses are designed to be both satisfying and nutritious. Packed with protein and fiber from humble lentils, they offer a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s quick to prepare, incredibly budget-friendly, and an absolute weeknight dinner champion for anyone seeking healthy, meatless options.
If you’re a fan of easy, customizable vegetarian fritters, be sure to explore more of our delicious recipes, including our popular chickpea sweet potato patties, robust black bean patties, authentic Greek chickpea patties, and fresh zucchini fritters.
Why You’ll Love These Wholesome, Crispy Patties
These lentil potato patties stand out as one of those effortless, wholesome meals that make healthy eating a joy, not a chore. Imagine a culinary creation that’s irresistibly crispy on the outside, yet wonderfully soft and richly flavorful inside. The magic lies in their simplicity, crafted from everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry: convenient canned lentils, a humble potato, and a few pantry staples.
What truly sets them apart is their exceptional nutritional profile combined with their deeply satisfying nature. Lentils are a powerhouse of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, providing sustained energy and supporting digestive health. The potato, beyond its comforting creaminess, acts as a natural binder, holding everything together in a hearty patty that feels substantial yet surprisingly light. These patties are a perfect solution for anyone craving healthy meatless meals that are complete, delicious, and leave you feeling nourished. They embody the essence of the Mediterranean-style eating pattern, naturally low in saturated fat and brimming with beneficial nutrients. They are ideal for individuals seeking high-protein vegetarian patties that are both simple to make and incredibly budget-friendly. Whether you’re aiming for quick lunches, easy weeknight dinners, or smart meal prep, these patties deliver on all fronts.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Lentil Potato Patties
For a comprehensive ingredient list with exact quantities and detailed substitution suggestions, please refer to the full recipe card located at the bottom of this page.
- Lentils: We recommend using canned brown or green lentils for their unparalleled convenience and time-saving benefits. They require no pre-soaking or lengthy cooking. However, if you prefer to cook from scratch or desire a slightly heartier, more rustic texture, you can certainly substitute with dried lentils that have been cooked until tender. This method works beautifully in many of our other easy lentil recipes.
- Potato: A key ingredient, the potato contributes a lovely creaminess to the patties and is essential for binding all the ingredients together, ensuring a firm, cohesive structure. For those who enjoy a touch of natural sweetness, swapping with an equal amount of mashed sweet potato is a fantastic alternative that also adds a different flavor dimension.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is our go-to choice as it provides the best structure and helps achieve that desirable crispy crust. If you’re looking to enhance the fiber content of your patties, oat flour makes an excellent substitute. For an extra boost of plant-based protein, chickpea flour (also known as besan) can be used, though you might need to adjust the liquid slightly as it tends to absorb more.
- Parmesan cheese: This ingredient is a game-changer, infusing the patties with a rich, savory, and umami-packed cheesy flavor that elevates the entire dish. For a dairy-free or vegan option, a good quality non-dairy parmesan alternative works wonderfully. Alternatively, for a distinct Greek-inspired twist, crumbled feta cheese offers a tangy and salty punch.
- Egg: The egg acts as a crucial binder, ensuring all the ingredients hold together beautifully to form sturdy patties that won’t fall apart during cooking. For those following a vegan diet, a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, allowed to sit for 5 minutes) can often be used as a substitute, although the binding might be slightly less robust.
- Red onion: Finely chopped red onion adds a mild, delicate sweetness and a subtle textural contrast. If red onion isn’t available, yellow onion, shallots, or even thinly sliced green onions can be used, each contributing a slightly different aromatic profile.
- Garlic: Freshly grated garlic is indispensable for adding depth and a pungent, aromatic flavor to the patties. In a pinch, a small amount of garlic powder can be used (about ½ teaspoon per fresh clove), but fresh is always recommended for the most vibrant taste.
- Cumin: This warm, earthy spice is central to the Mediterranean flavor profile of these patties. For variety, consider experimenting with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, turmeric for warmth and color, dried oregano for a classic herbaceous note, or even a mild curry powder for an exotic twist. All these spices beautifully complement lentil-based dishes.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of vibrant color and a bright, herbaceous freshness that lifts the overall flavor. If fresh parsley is unavailable, a teaspoon of dried oregano or basil can serve as a substitute, though the fresh element will be less pronounced.
- Olive oil: Essential for cooking the patties, olive oil helps achieve that coveted golden-brown and crispy crust. For alternative cooking oils, avocado oil or a light sunflower oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Irresistible Lentil Potato Patties
Step 1. Prepare and Mash the Hearty Base
Begin by thoroughly piercing your large potato with a fork multiple times. This allows steam to escape during cooking. Microwave the potato for 5–7 minutes, or until it becomes perfectly fork-tender. There’s no need to peel the potato before cooking; the skin not only adds extra dietary fiber but also contributes a lovely rustic texture to the finished patties. Once cooked, transfer the hot potato to a spacious mixing bowl and mash it thoroughly until you achieve a smooth consistency. Crucially, let the mashed potato cool for a few minutes; this step helps release any excess steam and moisture, which is vital for preventing your patties from becoming too soft or mushy.
Next, add the two cans of lentils to the mashed potato. Before adding, ensure the lentils have been thoroughly rinsed under cold water and drained very well to remove any canning liquid. You can even press them gently with a paper towel to extract maximum moisture. Now, gently mash the lentils and potato together. Aim to leave some small chunks of both the lentils and potato intact; this creates a pleasant, varied texture and a more rustic bite in your ultimate lentil potato patties, making them even more nourishing and satisfying.
Step 2. Infuse Flavor and Create the Perfect Mixture
To the prepared potato and lentil base, begin incorporating the remaining flavorful ingredients. Add the ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese (for that delightful savory depth), 1 large egg (essential for binding), ½ finely chopped red onion (for a touch of mild sweetness), 1 grated clove of garlic (for aromatic richness), 1 teaspoon of cumin (to impart warm, earthy notes—feel free to use smoked paprika or dried oregano as alternatives for a different twist), ¼ cup of fresh chopped parsley (for a vibrant, herbaceous lift), ¾ teaspoon of salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir all these ingredients together vigorously and thoroughly until they are well combined and the mixture comes together to form a cohesive mass. The consistency should be firm enough to handle and shape easily.
A crucial tip here is to assess the texture of your mixture. If it feels too soft, wet, or sticky to form into patties, gradually sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition, until it reaches a firm but still pliable consistency. The ideal mix should be sufficiently firm to easily shape into healthy potato patties, yet still promise a light and tender texture once cooked, ensuring a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness.
Step 3. Shape, Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection, or Bake/Air Fry
Now it’s time to bring your patties to life! Scoop out approximately 2–3 tablespoons of the mixture for each patty and gently shape it into small, uniform rounds or slightly oval discs. If you find the mixture is a bit sticky and adheres to your hands, lightly grease your palms with a tiny drizzle of olive oil; this will make the shaping process much smoother and cleaner. Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil (about 2 tablespoons) in a good quality nonstick skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering and hot before adding the patties.
Carefully place the shaped patties into the hot skillet, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes per side, or until they develop a beautiful deep golden-brown color and become wonderfully crisp on the exterior. Achieving this golden crust is absolutely essential for their delicious texture and visual appeal. For a different cooking method, you can also bake these versatile patties: arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through to ensure even browning. Alternatively, for a super quick and crispy result, air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
Step 4. Serve and Savor Your Delicious Lentil Potato Patties
Once your lentil potato patties are cooked to crispy perfection and gleaming golden-brown, transfer them to a serving plate. These delightful patties are best enjoyed warm, paired with your favorite accompaniments. They are particularly exquisite when served with a generous dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, a refreshing side of homemade tzatziki, or a crisp, vibrant fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. Their versatile flavor profile makes them perfect as a satisfying and healthy snack, a quick and easy lunch component, or a wonderfully light yet fulfilling Mediterranean-style dinner. Embrace the wholesome flavors and enjoy every bite!
Expert Tips for Flawless Lentil Potato Patties Every Time
- Drain the lentils well: This tip cannot be overstated! Excess liquid from canned lentils is the most common culprit behind a soft, unmanageable patty mixture. After rinsing, ensure your lentils are drained *very* thoroughly. You can even press them gently with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel to extract any residual moisture. This diligent draining keeps your lentil potato fritters firm, easy to shape, and ensures they achieve that desirable golden crispness when cooked.
- Allow the potato to cool slightly: Patience is a virtue here. After mashing, let the potato cool for at least a few minutes before mixing in other ingredients. This crucial cooling period helps release excess steam and moisture, resulting in a drier, firmer mixture. A well-drained, slightly cooled potato base contributes significantly to better texture and structural integrity for your patties.
- Adjust flour for perfect consistency: The exact moisture content of potatoes and lentils can vary, so don’t be afraid to trust your instincts with the flour. If your mixture feels overly sticky or too soft to handle and shape, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in an additional tablespoon or two of flour until it holds together easily and is pliable. The goal is a firm but not dry consistency.
- Utilize a quality nonstick skillet: A good nonstick pan is your secret weapon for achieving a beautifully crisp crust with minimal oil. This is especially advantageous for creating healthy vegetarian skillet dinners that remain light yet incredibly satisfying, preventing sticking and ensuring even browning without excessive fat.
- Avoid over-mashing for best texture: While a smooth potato base is important, resist the urge to mash everything into a completely uniform paste. Leaving a few small chunks of lentils and potato provides a wonderful rustic bite and adds valuable textural interest, making each patty more engaging and delicious.
- Explore creative serving options: Don’t limit yourself to the usual sides! These versatile patties are fantastic tucked into warm pita bread or whole-wheat wraps for a portable lunch, served as a healthier veggie burger alternative on toasted buns with all your favorite toppings, crumbled over vibrant grain bowls, or even offered as a delicious appetizer with various dipping sauces.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Lentil Potato Patties
These incredibly versatile lentil potato patties are a fantastic addition to almost any meal. Beyond the classic Greek yogurt or tzatziki dip, consider serving them alongside a vibrant mixed green salad dressed with a lemon-herb vinaigrette for a light and refreshing meal. For a heartier dinner, pair them with a side of quinoa or brown rice, perhaps tossed with roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. They also make excellent candidates for a vegetarian burger night when served on buns with your favorite toppings such as sliced tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, and a dollop of creamy avocado mash. Don’t forget their potential as a quick and healthy snack or appetizer, especially when accompanied by a spicy aioli or a cool cucumber dill sauce. For a Mediterranean twist, they’re perfect with a side of hummus and warm pita bread.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lentil Potato Patties
Absolutely! The patty mixture can be prepared up to one day in advance. Simply cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, give the mixture a quick stir, then shape and cook as directed. This makes these lentil potato patties an excellent option for healthy meal prep, significantly saving time on busy weekdays.
While you can certainly bake these patties, be aware that the texture will be different. Baked patties tend to be softer and might remain a little mushy in the center, lacking the crispy exterior achieved through pan-frying. For the best flavor, a wonderfully golden crust, and that irresistible crispy texture, we highly recommend cooking them on a nonstick skillet with a small drizzle of olive oil. This method ensures crisp edges and a much tastier result.
Yes, these patties freeze beautifully once they are cooked and thoroughly cooled. To freeze, arrange the cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or air fryer until they are heated through and regain their crisp texture.
Definitely! Sweet potatoes are a fantastic alternative and will add a subtle sweetness to the patties, pairing beautifully with the earthy lentils and warm spices. To use them, simply microwave the sweet potato just as you would a regular potato until it’s very tender. Then, scoop out the soft orange flesh, discard the skin, and proceed with mixing it with the lentils and other ingredients.
As written, this recipe is vegetarian due to the use of parmesan cheese and an egg. However, it can easily be adapted for a vegan diet! Simply substitute the parmesan with a good quality nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor) or a dairy-free cheese alternative, and replace the egg with a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). These simple swaps will make your lentil potato patties entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
These patties are incredibly versatile when it comes to dips! Our top recommendations include creamy Greek yogurt or homemade tzatziki for a refreshing, cooling contrast. Other fantastic options are a zesty lemon-tahini sauce, a spicy sriracha aioli, a herbaceous pesto, or even a classic tomato-based marinara. A simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice is also wonderful for brightening their flavors.
More Wholesome and Easy Dinner Recipes to Explore
- Mediterranean Lentil and Orzo
- Greek Lentil Soup
- Quick Broccoli Fritters
- Mediterranean Lentil and Rice
- Greek Chickpea Soup
- Turmeric Rice with Chickpeas
- Turmeric Lentil Soup
- Lentil Pumpkin Stew
If you tried this lentil potato patties recipe or any other delicious recipe on our blog, please take a moment to leave a 🌟 star rating and share your experience in the comments section below. We absolutely love hearing from you and appreciate your feedback!
Lentil Potato Patties (Healthy, Crispy & Budget-Friendly)
These lentil potato patties offer an irresistible combination of crispy exteriors and tender, flavorful interiors. Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, they are crafted from simple, affordable ingredients, making them an ideal choice for nutritious, budget-conscious meals, quick weeknight dinners, or efficient healthy meal prep.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 16 mins
Total Time: 31 mins
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American-Mediterranean
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Ingredients
- 2 cans lentils (15 oz / 400 g each can — rinsed and drained very well)
- 1 large potato (about 9 oz / 250 g)
- ½ cup all purpose flour
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 1 large egg
- ½ red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (sub smoked paprika or dried oregano)
- ¼ cup parsley (chopped – sub 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- ¾ teaspoon salt (+ black pepper to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the fritters)
Instructions
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Cook and Mash Potato: Pierce the large potato with a fork multiple times to allow steam to escape. Microwave it for 5–7 minutes, or until it becomes perfectly fork-tender. There’s no need to peel the potato before cooking; the skin not only adds extra dietary fiber but also contributes a lovely rustic texture to the finished patties. Once cooked, transfer the hot potato to a spacious mixing bowl and mash it thoroughly until you achieve a smooth consistency. Crucially, let the mashed potato cool for a few minutes; this step helps release any excess steam and moisture, which is vital for preventing your patties from becoming too soft or mushy.
Next, add the two cans of lentils to the mashed potato. Ensure they are thoroughly rinsed under cold water and drained very well to remove any canning liquid. You can even press them gently with a paper towel to extract maximum moisture. Now, gently mash the lentils and potato together. Aim to leave some small chunks of both the lentils and potato intact; this creates a pleasant, varied texture and a more rustic bite in your ultimate lentil potato patties, making them even more nourishing and satisfying.
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Combine Flavors and Binders: To the prepared potato and lentil base, begin incorporating the remaining flavorful ingredients. Add the ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese (for that delightful savory depth), 1 large egg (essential for binding), ½ finely chopped red onion (for a touch of mild sweetness), 1 grated clove of garlic (for aromatic richness), 1 teaspoon of cumin (to impart warm, earthy notes—feel free to use smoked paprika or dried oregano as alternatives for a different twist), ¼ cup of fresh chopped parsley (for a vibrant, herbaceous lift), ¾ teaspoon of salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir all these ingredients together vigorously and thoroughly until they are well combined and the mixture comes together to form a cohesive mass. The consistency should be firm enough to handle and shape easily.
A crucial tip here is to assess the texture of your mixture. If it feels too soft, wet, or sticky to form into patties, gradually sprinkle in a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition, until it reaches a firm but still pliable consistency. The ideal mix should be sufficiently firm to easily shape into healthy potato patties, yet still promise a light and tender texture once cooked, ensuring a perfect balance of crispness and tenderness.
-
Shape and Cook to Golden Perfection: Now it’s time to bring your patties to life! Scoop out approximately 2–3 tablespoons of the mixture for each patty and gently shape it into small, uniform rounds or slightly oval discs. If you find the mixture is a bit sticky and adheres to your hands, lightly grease your palms with a tiny drizzle of olive oil; this will make the shaping process much smoother and cleaner. Heat a generous drizzle of olive oil (about 2 tablespoons) in a good quality nonstick skillet over medium heat. Wait until the oil is shimmering and hot before adding the patties.
Carefully place the shaped patties into the hot skillet, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes per side, or until they develop a beautiful deep golden-brown color and become wonderfully crisp on the exterior. Achieving this golden crust is absolutely essential for their delicious texture and visual appeal. For a different cooking method, you can also bake these versatile patties: arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through to ensure even browning. Alternatively, for a super quick and crispy result, air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
-
Serve Warm and Enjoy: Once your lentil potato patties are cooked to crispy perfection and gleaming golden-brown, transfer them to a serving plate. These delightful patties are best enjoyed warm, paired with your favorite accompaniments. They are particularly exquisite when served with a generous dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, a refreshing side of homemade tzatziki, or a crisp, vibrant fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. Their versatile flavor profile makes them perfect as a satisfying and healthy snack, a quick and easy lunch component, or a wonderfully light yet fulfilling Mediterranean-style dinner. Embrace the wholesome flavors and enjoy every bite!
Recipe Notes & Customizations
Substitutions
- Lentils: For ultimate convenience, canned brown or green lentils are ideal. If you prefer to cook from scratch and desire a heartier texture, you can certainly use dried cooked lentils, similar to many of our other easy lentil recipes.
- Potato: The potato provides essential creaminess and acts as a binder. For a subtle hint of sweetness and a different flavor profile, feel free to swap it with an equal amount of mashed sweet potato.
- Flour: All-purpose flour offers the best structure for these patties. However, if you’re looking to boost the fiber content, oat flour is a great alternative. For an extra protein kick, chickpea flour (besan) works wonderfully, though it may absorb slightly more liquid so adjust accordingly.
- Parmesan cheese: This adds a rich, savory, and umami flavor that truly elevates the patties. If you need a dairy-free option, use a high-quality non-dairy parmesan alternative. For a distinct Mediterranean twist, crumbled feta cheese makes an excellent substitution.
- Egg: The egg is crucial for binding the ingredients together, ensuring the patties hold their shape during cooking. For a vegan alternative, a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) can often work, though the binding might be slightly less robust.
- Red onion: Finely chopped red onion contributes a mild sweetness and a pleasant crunch. Yellow onion, shallots, or even thinly sliced green onions can be used as substitutes, each offering a slightly different flavor nuance.
- Garlic: Fresh or grated adds depth. Garlic powder works in a pinch. Freshly grated garlic provides the deepest flavor. In a pinch, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be used per clove, but fresh is always recommended for maximum impact.
- Cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy, and distinctly Mediterranean flavor. For variation, consider smoked paprika for a smoky depth, turmeric for a touch of warmth and color, oregano for a classic Greek herb profile, or even a mild curry powder for an Indian-inspired twist. All these spices beautifully complement lentil-based dishes.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley brings a vibrant, herbaceous brightness to the patties. If fresh is unavailable, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or basil can be used, though the fresh flavor will be missed.
- Olive oil: Essential for pan-frying and flavor, olive oil ensures that golden, crispy crust. Avocado oil or a light sunflower oil are also excellent choices for high-heat cooking due to their high smoke points.
Pro Tips for Success
- Thoroughly Drain Lentils: This is paramount! Excess liquid from canned lentils is the primary culprit behind a soft, mushy mixture. After rinsing, ensure your lentils are drained *very* well. You can even press them gently with paper towels to remove extra moisture, ensuring your lentil potato fritters maintain their desired firm texture and achieve a beautiful golden crispness.
- Cool the Potato: Don’t rush this step. Allowing the mashed potato to cool for even just a few minutes helps residual steam escape and reduces moisture content. This results in a drier, firmer mixture that’s much easier to work with and yields patties with superior texture and structure.
- Adjust Flour as Needed: The exact moisture content of your potato and lentils can vary. If your mixture feels too soft or sticky to handle, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in an additional tablespoon or two of flour until it easily holds its shape. Conversely, if it feels too dry, a tiny splash of water can help.
- Invest in a Good Nonstick Skillet: A quality nonstick pan is your best friend when making patties. It allows you to achieve that coveted crisp crust with minimal oil, making these perfect for healthy vegetarian skillet dinners that are both light and incredibly satisfying.
- Resist Over-Mashing: While a smooth potato base is good, a few small chunks of lentils or potato can add a wonderful rustic bite and extra textural interest to your patties. Mash gently and mindfully to achieve this balance.
- Get Creative with Serving: These patties are incredibly versatile! Beyond the suggested yogurt or salad, try them tucked into warm pita bread or whole-wheat wraps for a portable lunch, served as a healthier veggie burger alternative on buns, or even crumbled over a grain bowl for added protein and flavor.
Storage & Meal Prep
Store any leftover cooked lentil potato patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, once the patties are completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crisp, or use an air fryer for a quick and easy re-crisping.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (1 of 4 patties, approximate values):
- Calories: 394kcal
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 57mg
- Sodium: 683mg
- Potassium: 811mg
- Dietary Fiber: 11g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 509IU
- Vitamin B6: 0.5mg
- Vitamin C: 21mg
- Vitamin E: 1mg
- Vitamin K: 69µg
- Calcium: 165mg
- Folate: 268µg
- Iron: 6mg
- Manganese: 1mg
- Magnesium: 72mg
- Zinc: 3mg
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