Healthy Lentil Kofta

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils (or green lentils)
• ½ cup fine bulgur wheat
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon pepper paste (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• 1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 3-4 green onions, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Lettuce leaves (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly, then place them in a pot with about 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and let them cook until soft (about 15-20 minutes). The lentils should absorb most of the water and become mushy.

2. Prepare the Bulgur: Once the lentils are cooked and soft, add the bulgur wheat directly into the pot with the lentils. Stir well, turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The bulgur will absorb the remaining liquid and soften.

3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, pepper paste (if using), cumin, paprika, black pepper, and chili flakes. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spices release their aroma.

4. Mix the Ingredients: Add the cooked onion and spice mixture to the lentils and bulgur. Stir everything together well. Let the mixture cool slightly.

5. Add Fresh Herbs and Lemon Juice: Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, add the chopped parsley, green onions, and lemon juice. Season with salt to taste.

6. Shape the Kofta: Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into oval or cylindrical koftas. Press them gently to form a firm shape.

7. Serve: Serve the lentil koftas on a plate with lettuce leaves, which can be used as a wrap. You can also drizzle some extra lemon juice or olive oil on top for added flavor.

Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious dish! It's a great vegan option that's full of protein and fiber from the lentils and bulgu