Lentil Meatballs

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups red lentils
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup fine bulgur
• ½ cup olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils:

   • Wash the red lentils well and place them in a large pot. Add 3 cups of water and bring to a boil.
   • Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the lentils are tender.

2. Prepare the Bulgur:

   • Once most of the water is absorbed, remove from heat and stir in the bulgur.
   • Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the bulgur to absorb the remaining water. The mixture will look dry, which is expected.

3. Sauté the Onion:

   • In a small saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until golden.
   • Add tomato paste, cumin, black pepper, paprika, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir well.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Once the bulgur and lentil mixture is dry, add the sautéed onion mixture to it and stir thoroughly.
   • Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.

5. Add Fresh Ingredients:

   • Mix in parsley, mint, green onions, lemon juice, and pomegranate molasses (if using).
   • Taste and adjust salt as needed.

6. Shape the Köftesi:

   • Allow the mixture to cool for 20-30 minutes.
   • Line a serving platter with lettuce leaves or other herbs.
   • Wet your fingers with a bit of water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Shape the mixture into small balls and place them on the lettuce.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the Mercimek Köftesi with extra lettuce leaves, lemon wedges, herbs, and pickles.

Notes:

• Dry Mixture: If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a bit more olive oil.
• Shaping: Wetting your fingers helps to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Enjoy your homemade Mercimek Köftesi!