Mercimek Kofte (Lentil Patties)

Mise-en-place

Ingrediënten

De bereidingswijze

Stap voor stap

1. 1

   Combine the red lentils and water in a medium saucepan.

2. 2

   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are very soft and have absorbed most of the water.

   Ongeveer 20 min

   Tip van de kok: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan.

3. 3

   Remove the saucepan from the heat, add the fine bulgur to the cooked lentils, stir well, and cover.

4. 4

   Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the bulgur to soften and absorb the remaining moisture.

   Ongeveer 20 min

5. 5

   While the bulgur is softening, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat.

6. 6

   Add the yellow onion and sauté until translucent and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.

   Ongeveer 7 min

7. 7

   Stir in the tomato paste and red pepper paste (if using) and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

   Ongeveer 3 min

   Tip van de kok: Cooking the tomato paste helps deepen its flavor.

8. 8

   Add the ground cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the onion mixture, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

   Ongeveer 1 min

9. 9

   Transfer the spiced onion mixture to the lentil and bulgur mixture.

10. 10

    Add the fresh parsley and fresh mint to the lentil mixture.

11. 11

    Using your hands, thoroughly mix and knead the ingredients together for about 5 minutes, until well combined and the mixture is cohesive.

    Ongeveer 5 min

    Tip van de kok: Kneading by hand helps bind the patties and activate the bulgur's starch.

12. 12

    Add the lemon juice and mix again.

    Tip van de kok: Adjust salt and pepper to taste at this stage.

13. 13

    Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into oval or cylindrical patties, about 2 inches long.

    Ongeveer 5 min

    Tip van de kok: Moisten your hands slightly to prevent sticking if needed.

14. 14

    Arrange the mercimek kofte on a serving platter and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

    Ongeveer 30 min

    Tip van de kok: Chilling helps the patties firm up and enhances the flavors.

15. 15

    Serve the mercimek kofte on romaine lettuce leaves.