Discover the vibrant flavors of Turkey with Kirmizi Mercimek Koftesi, or Red Lentil Burgers! This delightful dish is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a nutritious powerhouse, perfect for any meal. Packed with protein-rich red lentils and aromatic spices, these burgers are a fantastic option for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a hearty appetizer or a satisfying main course, this recipe will have your guests asking for seconds. Dive into this culinary adventure and learn how to create these mouthwatering lentil burgers that are sure to impress!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Turkish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1/2 cup bulgur
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Start by rinsing the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any impurities and excess starch.
- In a medium-sized pot, add the rinsed red lentils and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and have absorbed most of the water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the lentils are cooking, in a separate bowl, combine the bulgur with 1 cup of boiling water. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bulgur is tender and has absorbed the water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess water if necessary, and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, the bulgur, tomato paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes. Once it is cool enough to handle, add the chopped parsley and green onions. Mix again until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- With your hands, shape the lentil mixture into small patties or burgers, about the size of your palm. You can also shape them into oval or finger shapes if desired.
- Place the shaped patties on a serving plate. You can serve them immediately or chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Serve the Kirmizi Mercimek Koftesi as a tasty appetizer or main dish, garnished with additional fresh parsley and accompanied by lemon wedges for a refreshing touch.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Make sure to rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial for removing impurities and excess starch, ensuring a smoother texture in your burgers.
- Cook Lentils Properly: Keep an eye on the lentils while they cook. They should be soft and have absorbed most of the water, but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot.
- Let Bulgur Soak: Allow the bulgur to sit in boiling water until it’s tender. This helps it absorb all the flavors and ensures a perfect texture in your patties.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Sautéing the onions until they are translucent enhances their sweetness. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
- Cool the Mixture: After combining all ingredients, let the mixture cool slightly before shaping. This makes it easier to handle and helps the flavors meld together.
- Shape with Care: When forming the patties, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. You can make them as thick or thin as you like, but keep in mind that thinner patties will cook faster.
- Chill for Firmness: If you have time, chill the shaped patties in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.
- Serve with Fresh Garnishes: Elevate your dish by serving Kirmizi Mercimek Koftesi with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the burgers.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these lentil burgers on their own, in a wrap, or as part of a meze platter. They pair beautifully with yogurt or tahini sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of paprika or chili flakes can give your burgers an exciting kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
