Köfteli Makarna

Köfteli Makarna is a delicious vegan twist on a traditional Turkish pasta dish, featuring savory lentil meatballs and a rich tomato sauce. This hearty meal is both comforting and packed with flavor, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• Whole wheat pasta - 150 grams
• Red lentils - 100 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 1 medium, grated
• Breadcrumbs - 50 grams
• Parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Canned diced tomatoes - 400 grams
• Vegetable broth - 200 ml
• Spinach - 100 grams

Steps

1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions, and set aside once done.
2. In a pot, combine red lentils with 400 ml of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until lentils are soft. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 2.5 cm in diameter.
5. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the lentil meatballs and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the remaining chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent, about 3 minutes.
7. Add the canned diced tomatoes and vegetable broth to the skillet, bringing to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, then add the spinach and return the meatballs to the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and meatballs, tossing gently to coat. Serve warm.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in plant-based protein from lentils.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health.

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