Vegetarian Turkish-Style Kofte

Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Vegetarian Turkish-Style Kofte recipe, a plant-based twist on a traditional Turkish favorite. Made with protein-packed red lentils and fine bulghur, these tender, spiced patties are infused with aromatic cumin, paprika, and a hint of zesty lemon for a perfectly balanced bite. Fresh herbs like parsley and scallions elevate the texture and flavor, while a touch of optional red pepper paste adds a gentle kick. These kofte are easy to prepare, with just 25 minutes of prep time, and are perfect served on crisp lettuce leaves as an appetizer or a satisfying meatless main dish. Nutritious, flavorful, and versatile, this vegetarian recipe is a delicious way to bring Turkish cuisine to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Red lentils
• 0.75 cup Bulghur (fine grind)
• 2.5 cups Water
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1 large Onion (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Red pepper paste (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon Paprika (sweet or smoked)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 cup Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 0.33 cup Fresh scallions (finely chopped)
• 1 medium Lemon (juiced)
• 8 pieces Lettuce leaves (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water, then transfer them to a medium-sized pot with 2.5 cups of water.

Step 2

Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are soft and the water is mostly absorbed.

Step 3

Remove the pot from heat, stir in the bulghur, and cover with a lid. Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow the bulghur to soften and absorb the remaining liquid.

Step 4

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the tomato paste, red pepper paste (if using), cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld, then remove from heat.

Step 6

Transfer the onion and spice mixture to the lentil and bulghur base. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 7

Add the chopped parsley, scallions, and lemon juice to the mixture, stirring to incorporate the fresh ingredients into the kofte mixture.

Step 8

Allow the mixture to cool enough to handle, then use your hands to shape it into small oval or oblong patties approximately 2 inches long.

Step 9

Place the shaped kofte onto a serving plate with lettuce leaves. Serve fresh as an appetizer, or pair with additional sides for a full meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1512.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1314.7

Total Fat 47.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2721.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 194.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 55.8g	0%
Total Sugars 20.0g
Protein 46.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 584.2mg	0%
Iron 23.3mg	0%
Potassium 3517.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.7%

Protein: 13.3%

Carbs: 55.9%