Mercimek Kofte
Mercimek Kofte is a delicious and healthy Turkish dish made from red lentils, bulgur, and fresh herbs. Perfect as a light meal or appetizer, these flavorful patties are packed with protein and are easy to make at home.
Prep
20 minutes
Cook
30 minutes
Level
Medium
Serves
4
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Instructions
- 1
Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain.
- 2
In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, then add the lentils. Cook them uncovered for about 15 minutes or until soft. Drain any excess water and allow to cool.
- 3
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and fragrant.
- 5
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed onion mixture, bulgur, parsley, green onions, and lemon juice. Mix well until everything is nicely incorporated.
- 6
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 7
Once the mixture is well combined, wet your hands and shape the mixture into small oval patties or balls.
- 8
Arrange the patties on a serving platter and let them sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips
Let the patties chill in the refrigerator for a bit for improved texture and flavor.
Serve with lettuce leaves or cucumber slices for a refreshing touch.
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Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
- These patties can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before serving.
Substitutions
- You can substitute olive oil with sunflower oil if needed.
- Use quinoa in place of bulgur for a gluten-free option.
What to Serve With
- Serve with fresh vegetables like cucumber or lettuce.
- Pair with a side of yogurt for added creaminess.
Common Mistakes
- Avoid overcooking the lentils, or they might turn mushy.
- Ensure the bulgur is fine to achieve the right texture for patties.
Recipe FAQ
Can I make Mercimek Kofte ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture ahead and shape the patties a few hours before serving.
Is Mercimek Kofte vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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