Crispy Lentil Balls with Lemon & Lettuce
Turkish-style red lentil fritters that crisp up in minutes—no oven needed. Tangy, nutty, and perfect for snacking straight off the pan with fresh lemon and lettuce.
- Total time
- 12 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 185
- Protein
- 7g

Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Boil red lentils in water until completely soft and broken down, about 6 minutes. Drain well.
Step 2
Stir bulgur, lemon zest, salt, and pepper into the warm lentils until a thick paste forms.
Step 3
Cool the mixture for 1 minute, then wet your hands and roll into 1.5-inch balls (you'll make about 12).
Step 4
Heat olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
Step 5
Working in batches, pan-fry the balls 2 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy.
Step 6
Serve hot on lettuce leaves with lemon slices and a drizzle of pan juices.
Tools you’ll need
- medium saucepan
- 10-inch skillet
- wooden spoon
- paper towels
- small plate
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