Mercimek köfte

This Turkish dish consists of oval-shaped patties made from a doughy mixture of boiled red lentils and bulgur. The köfte mixture is seasoned with a pinch of salt and flavored with sautéed onions, tomato paste, and a pinch of cumin. In the spicy version of this dish, chili flakes are typically added for heat.

Fresh parsley, dill, and spring onions are added near the end of the cooking process for a refreshing flavor. Mercimek köfte are very popular in Turkey, where they are usually served cold as appetizers at social gatherings. They are traditionally eaten with lettuce and a squeeze of lemon juice.