Mercimek Köftesi are healthy, flavorful, vegetarian appetizer patties from Turkish cuisine. They are made from red lentils and fine bulgur, seasoned with green onions, fresh parsley, and a mix of smoky spices, and are typically served cold or at room temperature.

Prep Time	Cook Time	Serves
20 minutes	30 minutes	6

Part A: Ingredients

• Base: 1 cup Red Lentils (rinsed), 2 cups Water, $1/2$ cup Fine Bulgur Wheat.
• Aromatics/Binder: $1/2$ cup Olive Oil, 1 medium Onion, finely diced, 2 Tbsp Tomato Paste, 1 Tbsp Red Pepper Paste (or harissa), 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice.
• Herbs/Spice: 1 cup Parsley, finely chopped, 1 cup Scallions (green onions), finely sliced, 1 tsp Cumin, 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (Pul Biber or Aleppo), Salt and Pepper.
• Serving: Fresh lettuce leaves (for wrapping), Lemon wedges.

Part B: Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Lentils and Bulgur

1. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed red lentils and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the lentils are completely soft and all the water has been absorbed.
2. Remove the pot from the heat. Immediately stir in the fine bulgur wheat.
3. Cover the pot tightly and let the mixture stand for 10 minutes to allow the bulgur to absorb the remaining moisture and soften. The consistency should be thick and moldable.

Step 2: Prepare the Flavor Base

1. While the bulgur is resting, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and golden.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and red pepper paste (if using). Cook for 2 minutes to darken the color and deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Patties

1. Transfer the cooked lentil/bulgur mixture to a large bowl. Add the warm onion/paste mixture, lemon juice, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well with a wooden spoon or your hands until thoroughly combined.
3. Stir in the finely chopped parsley and sliced scallions.

Step 4: Form and Serve

1. Let the mixture cool to room temperature (essential for handling).
2. Once cooled, take tablespoon-sized amounts of the mixture and roll them into small ovals or cigar shapes, squeezing lightly to compact them.
3. Arrange the patties on a serving platter. Serve cold or at room temperature.
4. Mercimek Köftesi are traditionally served in fresh lettuce cups (like tacos) and drizzled with extra lemon juice.