Middle Eastern Lentil Kofta Bowl By Sy Recipe

Experience a taste of the Middle East with this vibrant and flavorful lentil kofta bowl! This hearty and visually stunning soup is a culinary delight, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a special occasion. The tender lentils, savory koftas, and colorful vegetables combine to create a symphony of textures and tastes. Customize your bowl with a variety of delicious accompaniments for an unforgettable dining experience.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 120 mins
Calories 462.6 kcal
Protein 77g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Middle Eastern Lentil Kofta Bowl By Sy 38

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Middle Eastern Lentil Kofta Bowl By Sy

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How to Make Middle Eastern Lentil Kofta Bowl By Sy

  1. **Prepare the Kofta:** In a bowl, combine 1 lb ground poultry, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, 1/4 tsp turmeric, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently mix until combined. Set aside.
  2. **Start the Soup:** Heat 4 cups of vegetable broth in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 cup brown or green lentils, 1 cup chopped celery, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained), and 1 tsp tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
  3. **Simmer the Lentils:** Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are three-quarters cooked. Stir occasionally.
  4. **Reserve Lentils:** Remove about 1/2 cup of cooked lentils and set aside.
  5. **Puree the Soup:** Remove the pot from the heat and carefully puree the soup using an immersion blender or in a regular blender in batches. Return the pot to the stove.
  6. **Season and Reduce:** Add 2 tbsp semneh (or substitute with 1 tbsp tahini and 1 tbsp olive oil), and puree again. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup has thickened slightly.
  7. **Add Reserved Lentils:** Stir in the reserved 1/2 cup of lentils and cook for 1 minute more.
  8. **Prepare the Kofta:** Form the kofta mixture into 12-16 small, flat patties. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the koftas for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through and slightly browned. Flatten them with a spatula while cooking.
  9. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 medium zucchini, diced, 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper, and 1 tbsp butter. Microwave for 1 minute, or until slightly softened. Do not overcook.
  10. **Assemble the Bowls:** Ladle the thick lentil soup into bowls. Arrange 2-3 koftas, 3 slices of zucchini, and a sprinkle of chopped red bell pepper on top of each bowl.
  11. **Serve and Enjoy:** Serve immediately with pita bread and your choice of accompaniments: hot chili sauce, yogurt sauce, mint sauce, sour cream, sour pickles/vegetables, and lemon wedges.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

26 g

Sugar

41g

Fat

29g

Carbs

11g