Mercimek Köftesi
Turkish red lentil and fine bulgur patties seasoned with pepper paste, cumin, fresh herbs, lemon, and pomegranate molasses, served in crisp lettuce leaves.
Instructions
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Step 1
Combine the red lentils and water in the saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer partially covered until the lentils are very soft and only a little liquid remains.
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Step 2
Remove the saucepan from the heat, stir in the bulgur, and cover. Let it stand until the bulgur absorbs the remaining moisture and becomes tender.
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Step 3
Heat the olive oil in the frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent.
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Step 4
Add the tomato paste, red pepper paste, cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the onion. Cook over low heat, stirring, until fragrant and evenly combined.
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Step 5
Transfer the lentil-bulgur mixture to the mixing bowl and add the seasoned onion mixture. Stir thoroughly, then leave it to cool until comfortably warm.
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Step 6
Knead the warm mixture by hand until evenly colored, cohesive, and slightly sticky.
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Step 7
Add the green onions, parsley, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses. Fold and knead briefly until evenly distributed.
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Step 8
Take small portions of the mixture and squeeze each one gently in your palm to form an elongated, ridged patty.
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Step 9
Arrange the patties with the romaine lettuce leaves on the serving platter and serve at room temperature.