Mercimek Kofti

This dish was staple in my home growing up and and always showed up during family gatherings at the holidays. As a kid I remember referring to these as "football kofti" as they look like little footballs. It is a simple, peasant food and, I believe to be considered a Turkish dish. I do mine classically simple like my Grandmother, Aunts and Mother did but there is certainly opportunity to dress this up if you would like.

Mercimek Kofti

1 cup red lentils
3 cups water
1 cup fine bulgur (#1) (can be found in most grocery stores these days)
1 medium onion halved and sliced very thinly
1/8 cup olive oil
salt to taste
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
chopped parsley (optional)
chopped green onion (optional)

Put water and lentils in a 3 qt pot, bring to a boil and simmer until tender (approximately 10-15 minutes). Add bulgur, remove from heat, cover and let stand until bulgur is soft. Heat olive oil over medium heat, add onion and saute until tender but not browned. When lentil and bulgur mixture has softened add onion and oil mixture. When cool add salt, green onion and parsley if desired. With one hand shape about 1 Tbsp of mixture into 1 1/2"x2"x3/4" pieces with tapered ends and finger indentations (they should look like little footballs). Use cold water to moisten hands so that pieces do not stick to your fingers. Arrange on plate and sprinkle with additional parsley or green onion. Serve at room temperature.