Red Lentil Patties (Mercimek Köftesi)

Method

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1. 1Put the lentils and water in a pot and simmer on low heat, stirring now and then, for 15-20 minutes. Turn off the heat when the lentils have broken down and absorbed all the water.
2. 2Pour the bulgur over the hot lentils, stir, cover and leave for 15-20 minutes. The bulgur will swell and soften in the steam and moisture from the lentils.
3. 3Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a pan and cook the onion for 6-7 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Add both pastes and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. 4Add the onion mixture, cumin, chili flakes and salt to the lentils and bulgur. Once cool enough to handle, knead for 5 minutes into a smooth mixture that doesn't stick to your hands.
5. 5Add the spring onions, parsley and lemon juice and knead again. Taste and add more salt or lemon if needed.
6. 6With wet hands, take walnut-sized pieces and squeeze them in your palm to make oblong patties with finger marks.
7. 7Arrange on lettuce leaves and serve with lemon wedges.