Cig kofte, a traditional Turkish dish, is a delicious and spicy treat enjoyed by many. Originally made with raw meat, this modern version uses bulgur wheat as a base, making it a safe and vegetarian-friendly option for all to enjoy. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply as a flavorful snack. Let’s dive into making this flavorful and aromatic cig kofte!
**Title: Cig Kofte**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups fine bulgur wheat
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp red pepper paste
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 2 lemons
– Handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
– Iceberg lettuce leaves, for serving
– Radishes, cucumbers, and lemon wedges, for garnish
– Salt to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by rinsing the bulgur wheat in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water. Drain well and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the finely chopped onion, tomato paste, red pepper paste, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, paprika, black pepper, and cinnamon to the bowl with the bulgur.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and combine well using your hands. The heat from your hands will help soften the bulgur and meld the flavors together.
4. Gradually add the lemon juice to the mixture, tasting as you go. Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on your preference for acidity.
5. Mix in the finely chopped fresh parsley, and season with salt to taste. The mixture should be aromatic and well combined.
6. To shape the cig kofte, take a small handful of the mixture and roll it into a smooth oval shape about the size of a walnut.
7. Serve the cig kofte on a bed of iceberg lettuce leaves with radishes, cucumbers, and lemon wedges on the side for garnish.
8. To enjoy, place a portion of the cig kofte onto a lettuce leaf, garnish with radish and cucumber slices, and squeeze a lemon wedge on top for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy this flavorful and spicy cig kofte with friends and family! The combination of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon juice makes this dish a delightful option for any occasion. Feel free to adjust the spiciness level to suit your taste buds, and don’t forget to serve it up with some crunchy vegetables for a perfect balance of flavors. This dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a cozy snack for a night in!
