Şanlıurfa Çiğ Köfte
The Story
The authentic hand-kneaded bulgur köfte from its birthplace. Legend traces its origin to Prophet Abraham in Urfa. The 30-40 minute kneading process is a performative art, with masters drawing crowds in the streets of Balıklıgöl.
Ingredients
- Extra-fine bulgur (#0)- 3 cups
- Isot pepper (Urfa biber)- 3 tbsp
- Tomato paste- 2 tbsp
- Pepper paste (biber salçası)- 2 tbsp
- Onion, very finely grated- 1 large
- Flat-leaf parsley, chopped- 1 bunch
- Fresh mint, chopped- 1 bunch
- Green onions, sliced- 3
- Cumin- 1 tsp
- Pomegranate molasses- for drizzling
- Lettuce leaves- for serving
- Lemons- 2
Instructions
Place fine bulgur in a large bowl. Add ½ cup warm water and mix. Let stand for 10 minutes.
Add tomato paste, pepper paste, and grated onion. Begin kneading firmly with both hands.
After 5 minutes, add isot pepper, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Continue kneading.
Knead vigorously for 25-30 minutes until smooth, cohesive, and slightly sticky.
The çiğ köfte is ready when it holds together easily with a uniform texture.
Add chopped parsley, mint, and green onions. Knead for 2 more minutes.
Shape into small oval patties by pressing between your palms.
Arrange on a platter lined with lettuce leaves.
Drizzle with pomegranate molasses and fresh lemon juice.
Serve immediately with extra lettuce, lemon wedges, and thin lavash bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve on crisp lettuce leaves with a generous squeeze of lemon and drizzle of pomegranate molasses. Wrap in thin lavash bread for the authentic Urfa experience.