Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly healthy? Dive into the world of Turkish cuisine with these Vegan Lentil Meatballs, or Mercimek Köfte, that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates! Packed with protein-rich red lentils and aromatic spices, this recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying appetizer or a light meal, these vibrant meatballs are the perfect addition to your table. Get ready to discover the secrets behind this mouthwatering dish that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Turkish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils, cooked
- 1/2 cup fine bulgur
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water and place them in a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until lentils are soft and have absorbed most of the water.
- While the lentils are cooking, finely chop the onion into very small pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils with fine bulgur wheat.
- Add the finely chopped onion, tomato paste, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the lentil and bulgur mixture. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Allow the mixture to cool for 10-15 minutes, which will help the ingredients bind together and make shaping easier.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small oval-shaped balls or torpedo-like shapes, typical of traditional Turkish mercimek köfte. Press firmly to ensure the balls hold together.
- Arrange the lentil meatballs on a serving plate and garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve at room temperature as an appetizer or light meal, traditionally accompanied by lettuce leaves for wrapping or with a side of fresh salad.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse your red lentils well before cooking to remove any impurities and enhance their flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the lentils while they simmer; they should be soft but not mushy. If they absorb too much water, feel free to add a splash more as needed.
- Chill for Better Texture: Allow the lentil mixture to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before shaping. This step helps the ingredients bind together more effectively, making it easier to form the meatballs.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cumin or chili flakes can give your lentil meatballs an extra kick!
- Serve with Fresh Greens: For a traditional touch, serve your Mercimek Köfte with fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping, or pair them with a vibrant salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
