Lentil Balls

Mercimekli Köfte is a beloved dish of Turkish home cooking. Simple yet nourishing, this lentil and bulgur dish is a picnic favorite and afternoon snack rolled into one. The real star of the dish is Aleppo Pepper — a sun-dried chili with fruity heat and a hint of smokiness. Choose Medium for a gentle warmth or Hot if you're after a bolder bite.

Ingredients

• ✓ 1.5 cups red lentils
• ✓ 3 cups fine bulgur
• ✓ 1 large onion, diced
• ✓ 6 scallions, chopped
• ✓ 2 fresh garlic stalks, finely chopped
• ✓ 2 bunches parsley, finely chopped
• ✓ 5 tbsp tomato paste
• ✓ 2 tbsp pepper paste
• ✓ 1 tsp cumin
• ✓ 1 tsp salt
• ✓ 1 tsp Cybele's Harvest Aleppo Pepper (Hot or Medium)
• ✓ ¼ cup olive oil

Instructions

1. 1
   Cook the LentilsSimmer red lentils in water with cumin until soft and slightly mushy.
2. 2
   Add the BulgurStir in fine bulgur, turn off the heat, and let it rest to absorb all the water.
3. 3
   Sauté the OnionIn a separate pan, cook half the diced onion in olive oil until golden. Remove from heat and stir in Aleppo Pepper.
4. 4
   Combine the BaseTransfer the lentil-bulgur mixture to a large bowl. Add the rest of the raw onion, tomato paste, pepper paste, and salt. Knead thoroughly.
5. 5
   Mix in the FlavorPour in the Aleppo-infused oil along with scallions, garlic, and parsley. Knead again until the mixture is smooth and vibrant.
6. 6
   Shape and ServeForm into finger-sized patties and serve with lettuce leaves or lemon wedges.

Serving Suggestions

• • Crisp romaine or butter lettuce
• • Ayran or yogurt dip
• • A drizzle of pomegranate molasses
• • Wrapped in lavash for a satisfying on-the-go snack