Lentil Kofta is a delicious and nutritious dish that brings together the goodness of red lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. These savory patties are not only satisfying but also versatile, making them perfect for sandwiches or as appetizers. Paired with a creamy white sauce and a zesty hot sauce, this dish will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or entertaining, this recipe is a must-try!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Kofta:
- 1 cup red lentils, soaked for 30 minutes (about 200 grams)
- 1 onion, grated (150 grams)
- 1 potato, grated (300 grams)
- A dash of olive oil
- 70 grams grated carrots
- 20 grams garlic, minced
- 10 grams fresh coriander and parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- For the White Sauce:
- ½ cup sour cream or yogurt (120 grams)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (120 grams)
- 5 grams grated garlic
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- For the Hot Sauce:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp chili flakes
- ¼ cup vinegar
- Salt, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Lentils:
- Soak the red lentils for 30 minutes, then strain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a pan over low heat, add a dash of olive oil, grated onions, potatoes, and carrots. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Set aside to cool.
- Blend the Lentils:
- In a food processor, blend the soaked lentils, minced garlic, and chopped coriander/parsley until you achieve a coarse mixture.
- Combine Mixtures:
- In a large bowl, combine the lentil mixture with the sautéed vegetables. Add cumin, ground coriander, salt, chili flakes, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Chill the Mixture:
- Refrigerate the lentil mixture for 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to shape into patties.
- Prepare the White Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix together the sour cream or yogurt, mayonnaise, grated garlic, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Prepare the Hot Sauce:
- In another bowl, combine chili powder, chili flakes, vinegar, and salt. Adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Shape the Kofta:
- Wet your hands to prevent sticking and shape the lentil mixture into small patties.
- Cook the Kofta:
- Heat a little vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the lentil kofta patties until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Serve the kofta in pita bread (or your favorite bread) with the white sauce, hot sauce, and any preferred vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, or cucumbers.
- Serve as Appetizers:
- Alternatively, serve the lentil kofta as quick bite appetizers or snacks, with the sauces on the side for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of fresh salad or pickles for added crunch.
- Pair with a refreshing drink, like mint lemonade or yogurt lassi, for a complete meal experience.
Cooking Tips
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the mayonnaise used is gluten-free.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili flakes in the kofta and hot sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: Lentils provide a great source of plant-based protein, supporting muscle health.
- Rich in Fiber: The combination of lentils and vegetables makes this dish high in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians and can be made vegan by using plant-based mayonnaise and yogurt.
- Nut-Free: All ingredients are nut-free, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover kofta and sauces in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked kofta in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a dish that is both delicious and hearty.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, appetizers, or even as a main dish served with rice or salad.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is great for cooks of all skill levels.
Conclusion
These Lentil Kofta with White and Hot Sauces are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. Whether served in a sandwich or as an appetizer, they are sure to please both your taste buds and your guests. Enjoy making and sharing this versatile dish, and savor the wonderful flavors it brings!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use split lentils instead of whole red lentils?
- Yes, you can use split lentils, but they may cook faster. Adjust the soaking time accordingly.
- Can I make the kofta ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to shape and cook them.
- Is the white sauce necessary?
- The white sauce adds creaminess, but you can skip it if you prefer a lighter option or use a vegan alternative.
- Can I bake the kofta instead of frying?
- Yes, you can bake the kofta at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.
- What can I serve with these kofta?
- Serve with a side of rice, a salad, or even alongside hummus and pita for a larger mezze platter.
- Can I add other vegetables to the kofta mixture?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
- How spicy is this dish?
- The spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences by adding or reducing the amount of chili flakes.
- Can I freeze the kofta?
- Yes, cooked kofta can be frozen. Just ensure they are in an airtight container.
- How do I reheat the kofta?
- You can reheat them in a pan over low heat or in the oven until warmed through.
- What type of bread works best for serving?
- Pita bread works well, but any flatbread or sandwich bread can be used for serving.