Çiğ Köfte

Çiğ Köfte is a traditional Turkish dish made from bulgur, finely ground meat, and a variety of spices, creating a flavorful and nutritious snack. This dish is typically served raw and is enjoyed wrapped in lettuce leaves or with fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

• Fine bulgur - 100 grams
• Water - 150 milliliters
• Lean ground beef or lamb - 100 grams
• Tomato paste - 1 tablespoon
• Red pepper paste - 1 tablespoon
• Onion - 1 small, finely grated
• Garlic - 1 clove, minced
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Mint leaves - 1 tablespoon, chopped
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
• Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
• Lettuce leaves - for serving

Steps

1. In a bowl, combine the fine bulgur and water. Let it soak for about 15 minutes until the bulgur absorbs the water and becomes soft.
2. Add the ground meat, tomato paste, red pepper paste, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, mint, cumin, black pepper, and salt to the soaked bulgur.
3. Using your hands, knead the mixture thoroughly for about 10 minutes until well combined and the texture is smooth.
4. Drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice, and knead for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
6. Serve the Çiğ Köfte on a plate with fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping.

Nutrition

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbs: 50 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 40 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.15 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein from the lean meat, supporting muscle health.
• Rich in fiber from bulgur, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

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