Lentil Köfte (Mercimek Köftesi)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils

• 4 cups water

• 1 1/2 cups fine bulgur (for köfte)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika (preferably smoked)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses (optional, for a tangy flavor)

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh green onions (scallions), finely chopped

• 2-3 large lettuce leaves (for serving)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils:

• Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.

• In a medium-sized pot, add the lentils and 4 cups of water.

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and have absorbed most of the water. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.

• Once cooked, remove from heat and set aside. If there’s excess water left, drain it off.

2. Prepare the Bulgur:

• Place the fine bulgur in a large mixing bowl.

• Add the cooked lentils to the bowl, mixing the two together.

• Cover the mixture and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the bulgur to absorb the moisture from the lentils. The mixture should become slightly sticky.

3. Sauté the Onion:

• In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent.

• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of the köfte.

4. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the sautéed onions, cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and pomegranate molasses (if using) to the lentil-bulgur mixture.

• Mix everything together thoroughly, using your hands if necessary to incorporate the ingredients evenly.

• Once the mixture is fully combined, add the fresh parsley and green onions. Stir again to evenly distribute them.

5. Shape the Köfte:

• Let the mixture cool down slightly before shaping it into small oval or cigar-shaped köftes.

• Wet your hands lightly to help shape the mixture and prevent it from sticking.

• Continue shaping until the entire mixture is used.

6. Serve:

• Arrange the lentil köftes on a platter.

• Serve with lettuce leaves, which can be used to wrap the köftes.

• Add lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze of citrus before eating.

Tips:

• Texture: If the mixture is too soft to shape, you can add a little extra fine bulgur and let it sit for 5-10 more minutes to firm up.

• Heat: You can adjust the level of spice by adding chili flakes if you like it spicier.

• Serving: Serve these köftes as an appetizer, a snack, or even as part of a main course with rice or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your Mercimek Köftesi – a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying Turkish dish!