Lentil Köfte (Mercimek Köftesi) RecipeEnjoy the traditional flavors of Turkey with this easy Lentil Köfte (Mercimek Köftesi) recipe. Made from red lentils, fine bulgur, fresh herbs, and spices, these flavorful, finger-sized patties are perfect as a healthy appetizer or snack. Light, nutritious, and packed with taste, Lentil Köfte is a beloved dish that brings warmth and authenticity to your kitchen.Ingredients:1 cup red lentils4 cups water1 1/2 cups fine bulgur (for köfte)1 large onion, finely chopped2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)2 tablespoons tomato paste1 teaspoon cumin1 teaspoon paprika (preferably smoked)1/2 teaspoon ground black pepperSalt to taste2 tablespoons pomegranate molasses (optional, for a tangy flavor)1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped1/4 cup fresh green onions (scallions), finely chopped2-3 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!