Lentil Balls

Sample Dishes from Turkish Cuisine

Lentil Balls (Mercimek Köftesi)

Preparation

Place lentils and water in a large saucepan. Bring to boil. Reduce heat. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are very tender. Remove from heat. Stir in bulgur, tomato paste, salt and spices while stil hot, blending thoroughly. Cover and set aside for 15 minutes. Saute fınely chopped onions in oil for 10 minutes or until tender crisp, stirring occasionally. Stir in red pepper; mix. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons. Pour remaining over lentil-bulgur mixture. Add minced onion, mixing thoroughly. Blend in chopped green onions, parsley, mint leaves, reserving 2-3 tablespoons. Shape into egg sized oblong patties. Arrange on a serving plate. Sprenkle with reserved saute onion. Garnish with reserved greens. Serve warm or cold.

Servings: 6

Nutritional Value
(in approximately one serving)

Regional Characteristics:

The recipe comes from the Southeast Region. However it is prepared in many parts of the country. lt is very typical, tasty and rich in flavor and for this reason especially popular and served at tea parties, buffet suppers or luncheons. It may be served in small balls for cocktail parties too. Cummin may be added with other spices. Instead of mint leaves, tarragon can be substituted since the original recipe includes tarragon. Lentil patties can be arranged over lettuce leaves on a serving plate.