Meatless Çiğ Köfte (Spicy Bulgur Kofta)

Method

Tap a step when it's done.

1. 1Put the bulgur in a large bowl and sprinkle the isot and pepper flakes over it. Pour over the hot water, stir, cover and leave for 15 minutes to absorb.
2. 2Add the grated onion, garlic, both pastes, cumin, pepper and salt. Wear food-safe gloves if you have them, since the pepper can sting your hands.
3. 3Knead by pressing the mixture with the heel of your hand and folding it over. Keep going for at least 20-25 minutes, until the grains soften and it becomes a cohesive paste that holds together when squeezed.
4. 4If it feels dry, sprinkle in 1-2 tbsp water as you knead; if it is too wet, add a handful of bulgur and keep kneading.
5. 5Add the pomegranate molasses, olive oil and walnuts, if using, and knead for 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust the salt and sourness.
6. 6Finally, add the spring onions and parsley and mix briefly without crushing the herbs.
7. 7Take walnut-sized pieces and squeeze them in your fist to make finger-marked ovals. Serve with lettuce leaves, lemon wedges, fresh mint and lavash.