3rd Recipe : Turkish Bulgur Balls

Ingredients:

- 2 cups fine bulgur

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 tablespoon pepper paste

- 1 small onion, grated

- 1 clove garlic, crushed

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1–2 teaspoons chili flakes (or isot pepper)

- 1/2 lemon, juiced

- 1/2 cup olive oil

- 1/2 bunch parsley, finely chopped

- 3–4 green onions, finely chopped

- Lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions:

1. Place the fine bulgur in a large bowl. Sprinkle a little warm water over it and let it rest for about 5 minutes until softened.

2. Add tomato paste, pepper paste, grated onion, garlic, and all spices.

3. Knead the mixture with your hands until the bulgur absorbs the flavors and becomes smooth.

4. Add olive oil and lemon juice, continue kneading.

5. Mix in chopped parsley and green onions.

6. Shape small portions into oval pieces by pressing them in your palm.

7. Serve on lettuce leaves.

This dish is traditionally shared among family and friends, eaten by hand, and enjoyed together.

We chose çiğ köfte because it is a traditional Turkish family dish that represents sharing and togetherness. It is practical for a school environment since it requires no cooking and only simple ingredients. At the same time, it is authentic and unique, giving Italian students a real taste of Turkish culture.