Çiğ Köfte

Preparation

1. 01

   Soaking

   Place the fine bulgur in a large kneading bowl and add the ice water. Let it soak for about 20 minutes, until the bulgur softens.

2. 02

   Kneading

   Add the lean ground meat to the softened bulgur. Press and knead with the palms of your hands until the bulgur and meat are thoroughly combined. Continue this process for 15–20 minutes without stopping, kneading until the mixture reaches a paste-like consistency.

3. 03

   Kneading

   Add the isot, tomato paste, pepper paste, cumin, and salt to the mixture. Continue kneading until the spices are fully incorporated.

4. 04

   Kneading

   Add the grated onion and crushed garlic. Knead until a uniform consistency is achieved.

5. 05

   Kneading

   Add the pomegranate molasses and lemon juice. Continue kneading for another 10 minutes until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth, elastic, and paste-like.

6. 06

   Mixing

   Add the finely chopped parsley and briefly knead to combine.

7. 07

   Shaping

   Take walnut-sized portions from the mixture and shape them into ovals in the palms of your hands.

8. 08

   Serving

   Serve the shaped çiğ köfte wrapped in lettuce leaves or alongside lavash bread.