Name: Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 1 cup Red Lentil / Masoor Dal; 3/4 cup Fine Bulgur; 1 Onion, finely chopped; 1 cup Parsley, finely chopped; 4 Spring onions (whites and greens), chopped; 2 tbsp Tomato paste (or substitute ketchup); 1 tbsp Cumin powder; 2 tsp Crushed red pepper (adjust to taste); Salt to taste; 4 tbsp Olive oil; 8 Lettuce leaves (for serving)

If you have never tried Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe, you are in for an absolute treat that beautifully blends wholesome ingredients with vibrant Turkish flavors. These delicate yet hearty red lentil and bulgur balls burst with fresh herbs, warming spices, and a subtle tang that makes every bite incredibly comforting. Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine or looking to impress your friends with a healthy appetizer, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious snack that’s both satisfying and a feast for the eyes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two steps of cooking in a black pan on a white marbled surface. The top part has raw chopped onions, red chili flakes, and a dollop of red paste, all sitting in the pan before being mixed. The bottom part shows the ingredients after they are mixed and cooked, turning into a darker, thick, red-brown chunky sauce stirred with a white spatula held by a woman's hand. The sauce texture is rough and richly colored, filling the pan more evenly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the perfect Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe starts with simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the iconic texture and taste. Every element complements the others, resulting in a symphony of flavors and textures that feel both light and substantial.

Red Lentils (1 cup): The star protein that becomes soft and creamy when cooked, forming the base of the kofte.
Fine Bulgur (3/4 cup): Adds a wonderful chewy texture and helps bind the mixture.
Onion (1, finely chopped): Brings a mild sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Parsley (1 cup, finely chopped): Offers a fresh, herbal brightness essential for balance.
Spring Onions (4, chopped): Adds a gentle crunch and a subtle onion flavor.
Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Imparts a rich umami note and gorgeous redness; ketchup can be substituted if needed.
Cumin Powder (1 tbsp): Introduces a warm, earthy aroma so typical of Turkish cooking.
Crushed Red Pepper (2 tsp): Provides a hint of heat—you can adjust based on your spice love.
Salt (to taste): The essential taste enhancer that brings all flavors into harmony.
Olive Oil (4 tbsp): Used to gently sauté the onions and infuse richness.
Lettuce Leaves (8): These are perfect for wrapping your koftesi when serving.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

Start by washing your red lentils thoroughly to get rid of any impurities. Place them in a large pot with about 3 cups of water. You’ll want to cook them on medium heat until they soften but still have a little water left—this is crucial because the remaining moisture will help cook the bulgur perfectly. If you notice the lentils are getting too dry, add a splash of hot water to keep them moist and smooth.

Step 2: Incorporate the Bulgur

Once the lentils are tender and saucy, stir in the fine bulgur. Then turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it rest for about 30 minutes. The beauty of this step is in its simplicity: the heat from the lentils cooks the bulgur without additional fuss, soaking up all the savory flavors.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

While the bulgur is resting, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the finely chopped onions until they turn translucent and soft. Add the crushed red pepper, tomato paste (or ketchup if that’s what you have), and cumin powder. Stir everything together for around two minutes. This fragrant mix will elevate the flavor profile of your Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe to the next level.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Turn off the stove and mix the spiced sautéed onions into the cooked lentil and bulgur mixture. Now add the chopped parsley, spring onions, and a pinch of salt. I highly recommend using your hands for mixing here—it makes it easier to evenly incorporate all ingredients and connect with the mixture, almost like a love letter to the dish.

Step 5: Shape Your Koftesi

Finally, take handfuls of the mixture and shape them into little football-shaped balls or oval patties. The texture should be firm enough to hold together but still soft and tender to the bite. Place them on your serving platter, ready to impress!

How to Serve Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe

The image shows a round black plate filled with large green romaine lettuce leaves, arranged to cover the plate's surface. On top of the lettuce are twelve oval-shaped patties made of a mixture that looks crumbly and coarse, containing visible green herbs and small bits of purple onion. The patties are arranged close together in the center of the plate, each roughly the same size and shape, with a golden-brown and green speckled texture from the ingredients. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a few loose romaine leaves near the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Mercimek Koftesi truly shines when paired with fresh garnishes. Bright lemon wedges are a must—they add a zesty pop that cuts through the richness. Sprigs of fresh mint or extra parsley lend a refreshing lift. You can also serve with thinly sliced radishes for crunch or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to bring it all together.

Side Dishes

This dish works wonderfully alongside light and crisp sides. Serving it with cool yogurt or a garlicky yogurt sauce adds creaminess and a balanced tang. A simple tomato and cucumber salad makes for a refreshing contrast, while warm, crusty bread lets you scoop up any extra koftesi crumbs and juice.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party platter, use lettuce leaves as little wrappers and let guests create their own bites. You can also arrange Mercimek Koftesi on a vibrant bed of mixed greens sprinkled with pomegranate seeds, adding both texture and a pop of color. These little red lentil and bulgur balls are as versatile as they are tasty, so feel free to get creative on presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After you’ve enjoyed your feast, store any leftover Mercimek Koftesi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this healthy snack conveniently even on busy days.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance, these lentil and bulgur balls freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm them gently in a pan over low heat or microwave until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep their soft texture and fresh flavor intact.

FAQs

Is Mercimek Koftesi gluten-free?

Traditional Mercimek Koftesi includes bulgur, which contains gluten. However, you can try substituting bulgur with gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or fine ground almonds if you have dietary restrictions, though the texture may vary.

Can I make Mercimek Koftesi vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, relying on plant-based ingredients like lentils, bulgur, and olive oil to create delicious and satisfying koftesi without any animal products.

What can I serve with Mercimek Koftesi?

This dish pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, yogurt-based dips, and simple salads. Think cucumber and tomato mixes, garlicky yogurt sauce, or even some pickled vegetables to brighten every bite.

How spicy is this recipe?

The crushed red pepper adds a gentle kick, but you can adjust the heat to your liking. Reduce or omit red pepper if you prefer a milder version of Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe.

Can this be served as a main dish?

While often enjoyed as an appetizer or snack, a hearty serving alongside salad and bread can make Mercimek Koftesi a light, healthy main course any day.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about making and sharing Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe. It’s a dish that brings warmth, nutrition, and a splash of Turkish flair to your table. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself to a wholesome snack, give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you for the delightful journey!

Mercimek Koftesi: Turkish Red Lentil and Bulgur Balls Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need