Spicy Turkish Lentil Köfte with Pomegranate Glaze
Delight your senses with these spicy red lentil köfte, paired perfectly with a tart and sweet pomegranate glaze. A delicious, plant-based option that captures the essence of Turkish cuisine.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Preparing the Lentil Köfte
- 1
Cook lentils
Rinse lentils and combine with water in a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until lentils are soft and water is absorbed.
- 2
Sauté onions and spices
In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté onion until translucent. Add tomato paste, red pepper paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- 3
Combine lentils and bulgur
Add the sautéed onion mixture to the cooked lentils. Stir in fine bulgur, cover, and let sit for 15 minutes until bulgur is hydrated.
Preparing the Pomegranate Glaze
- 1
Mix ingredients
Mix pomegranate molasses, honey, lemon juice, and chili flakes in a small saucepan.
- 2
Simmer glaze
Simmer for 5 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
Tip: Check consistency of the glaze — it should coat the back of a spoon.
- 3
Cool glaze
Let the glaze cool before using.
Tip: Add a splash of water if the glaze becomes too thick.
How to Make Spicy Turkish Lentil Köfte with Pomegranate Glaze
Total time: 1 h 47 min · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Forming the Köfte
Wet hands slightly and shape the lentil mixture into small oval patties.
- 2
Chilling
Place formed köfte onto a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 3
Applying the Glaze
Drizzle or brush the pomegranate glaze over plated köfte before serving.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare and shape the köfte a day in advance and glaze before serving.
Can I use brown lentils instead of red?
Red lentils are preferred as they cook faster and give the right texture, but you can try brown lentils with adjusted cooking times.
How do I add more spice?
Increase the amount of chili flakes in the glaze or add a pinch of cayenne to the lentil mixture.
Are there gluten-free options?
Substitute fine bulgur with quinoa. Adjust the hydration time accordingly.
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