Mercimek Köftesi

TURKEY

Lentil Patties

SUBMITTED BY

Gülin

For this episode celebrating lentils, Gülin submitted Mercimek Köftesi, or Turkish lentil patties. It’s a beloved plant-based dish packed with flavor, nutrition, and spice. This traditional meze is made from red lentils, fine bulgur, onions, tomato paste, and a blend of aromatic spices. It is a staple in Turkish cuisine, known for its satisfying taste and wholesome ingredients.

One of the main reasons Mercimek Köftesi is popular is its high protein and fiber content, making it a great vegetarian or vegan alternative. The lentils provide a creamy texture, while the bulgur gives the dish a slightly chewy bite. Ingredients like cumin, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs such as parsley and scallions enhance its depth of flavor.

Mercimek Köftesi is often shaped into small, oblong patties and served cold with crisp lettuce leaves, lemon wedges, and fresh greens. The zesty and slightly spicy taste makes it an ideal appetizer or snack. It is also an excellent meal prep option, as it stays fresh for days.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy, protein-rich dish or a flavorful Turkish classic, Mercimek Köftesi is a must-try recipe that delights the taste buds while offering numerous health benefits.

Mercimek Köftesi

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 2 cups water
  • ¾ cup fine bulgur
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ bunch parsley
  • ½ bunch dill
  • 4-5 green onions finely chopped
  • lettuce for serving

Instructions
 

  • Start by sweating the onions until translucent in the olive oil.
  • Then add the tomato paste and stir around a bit until the paste becomes fragrant.
  • Add washed and drained red lentils and stir around to warm up, then add the water and a pinch of salt, bring to a boil and turn down to simmer with a lid until the lentil has absorbed all the water.
  • Once the water is gone, add the fine bulgur, put the lid back on and wait around 30 minutes until the bulgur steams and puffs up.
  • After the bulgur puffs up, add the red pepper flakes, cumin and salt, and mix together with your hands like you would knead a dough.
  • After it comes together, add chopped parsley, dill and green onions and mix.
  • Shape with your hand and serve cold/room temp on a bed of lettuce. Use the lettuce as a wrap to eat!
Course: Snack
Region: Asia
Diet: Vegan, Vegetarian

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