Turkish Lentil Patties: A Flavorful and Plant-Based Classic

If you're seeking a tasty, nutritious, and satisfying dish, look no further than Turkish lentil patties, known as "mercimek köftesi." These delightful patties offer a burst of flavor while being packed with protein and fiber. What makes them even better is their plant-based nature, making them suitable for everyone, from vegetarians to those just looking to enjoy healthy meals. There's something about biting into a soft, flavorful patty wrapped in crunchy lettuce with a squeeze of lemon that’s simply irresistible.

Turkish lentil patties (mercimek köftesi) arranged over fresh lettuce leaves, ready to serve

Nutritional Benefits

Not only are Turkish lentil patties delicious, but they also offer impressive health benefits.

• High in Protein and Fiber: Red lentils are renowned for their nutritional profile, providing around 18 grams of protein and 16 grams of fiber per cooked cup. This makes them a filling option that can keep you energized throughout the day.

• Low in Calories: With roughly 230 calories in a cup, they’re a great option for anyone watching their caloric intake.

• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: These patties contain essential nutrients such as iron, which supports your immune system. Likewise, the potassium found in lentils supports cardiovascular health.

  
  

Adding bulgur not only enhances the texture but also increases fiber content, which aids in digestive health. Whole grains like bulgur have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 20% when incorporated into a balanced diet.

Fresh herbs and spices elevate the taste while providing added antioxidants that combat free radicals in the body.

Ingredients

To create these tasty Turkish lentil patties, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils

• 2 cups water

• ½ cup fine bulgur

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 4-5 tbsp sunflower oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 5 green onions, finely chopped

• ½ bunch parsley, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp pepper paste

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes

• ½ tsp cumin (optional)

• Juice of ½ lemon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Lentils

1. Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear to remove any debris.

2. Place the rinsed lentils in a pot with 2 cups of water. Cook on low heat, occasionally stirring, until the lentils are soft—this typically takes about 15 minutes.

3. Once cooked, remove from heat, stir in the fine bulgur, cover, and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the bulgur to absorb moisture.

   
   

Sautéing the Aromatics

1. In a separate pan, heat sunflower oil over medium heat.

2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and turn translucent.

3. Stir in the tomato paste and pepper paste, letting them cook together for about 2 minutes. This will deepen the flavors of your patties.

   
   

Mixing the Ingredients

1. Pour the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the lentil and bulgur mixture.

2. Mix everything together using a spoon or your hands once it cools slightly to avoid burns. Aim for a smooth texture that holds together well.

3. Incorporate the chopped green onions, parsley, and juice of half a lemon for a refreshing kick.

   
   

Shaping the Patties

1. Take a small amount of the mixture and press it in your palm to create oval-shaped patties. Aim for a consistent size for even cooking.

2. Depending on your preference, make these small for appetizers or larger for a light meal.

   
   

Serving Suggestions

One delightful way to serve these Turkish lentil patties is to place them on crisp lettuce leaves. This combination not only adds a refreshing crunch but also makes for easy finger food.

Serve these patties with extra lemon wedges to let guests add a tangy drizzle that enhances the flavors beautifully.