Authentic Turkish vegan çiğ köfte recipe with perfect texture, rich spices, and traditional preparation method.

Çiğ köfte is not cooked; it is engineered by hand. Fine bulgur absorbs water, spices dissolve in oil, and long kneading creates structure. This recipe delivers an authentic southeastern Turkish result without meat.

🧾 Ingredients

• 2 cups fine bulgur
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 tbsp red pepper paste
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 tbsp isot pepper
• 1 tsp chili flakes
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
• Juice of ½ lemon

🔥 Instructions

1. Soak bulgur with hot water for 10 minutes.
2. Add pastes, onion, and garlic; knead well.
3. Gradually add spices and knead for 20–25 minutes.
4. Add olive oil, pomegranate molasses, and lemon juice; knead 5 more minutes.
5. Shape by hand and serve.

🍽️ Serving Tips

• Serve with lettuce leaves and lemon
• Enjoy with flatbread and ayran-style vegan drinks

🥗 Nutrition Benefits

• High in fiber
• Plant-based protein
• Naturally vegan and cholesterol-free

📈 SEO Notes

• Keyword density: ~1%
• Secondary keywords: vegan Turkish food, çiğ köfte vegan, raw bulgur recipe
• Category: Traditional Turkish Dishes / Vegan Recipes