Turkish Red Lentil & Bulgur Patties (Mercimek Köftesi)
Flavorful, plant-based patties made from red lentils and fine bulgur, seasoned with fresh herbs and spices. A unique, budget-friendly dish perfect as a light meal or appetizer served in crisp lettuce leaves.
1580 calories
$2 per serving
$35 min
4 servings
budget-friendly, any cuisine
Ingredients
- 200g red lentils
- 150g fine bulgur wheat
- 750ml water
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 45ml olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4 spring onions, finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions
- 1.Rinse the red lentils and place them in a pot with 750ml of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the lentils are very soft and have absorbed most of the water.
- 2.Remove the pot from the heat. Immediately stir in the fine bulgur wheat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. The steam will cook the bulgur.
- 3.While the bulgur rests, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent.
- 4.Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, and paprika. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a flavorful base.
- 5.Transfer the cooked lentil-bulgur mixture to a large bowl. Add the sautéed onion mixture, chopped parsley, spring onions, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 6.Mix everything together thoroughly. You can use a spoon initially, but using your hands (lightly oiled) to knead the mixture for a minute helps combine the flavors.
- 7.Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small, oblong patties (about the size of your thumb).
- 8.Arrange the patties on a platter with fresh lettuce leaves. Serve at room temperature, using the lettuce as a wrap for the patties.
Nutrition Information
48g
fat
245g
carbs
47g
fiber
68g
protein
Why this recipe
This nutritious recipe is packed with plant-based protein and high in dietary fiber from lentils and bulgur, promoting digestive health and sustained energy. It's a naturally low-fat, balanced meal rich in iron and essential minerals.