Bulgur Köfte with Spicy Turnip Juice Sauce

Bulgur Köfte with Spicy Turnip Juice Sauce

A unique and flavorful dish where classic bulgur köftes are paired with a tangy sauce made from CEREN Spicy Turnip Juice. The spicy, sour notes of şalgam bring a refreshing twist to this traditional recipe.

Ingredients

For the köfte:

  • 1 cup fine bulgur
  • ½ cup hot water
  • 2 tablespoons CEREN Tomato Paste
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 egg (to bind)
  • 2 tablespoons flour

For the sauce:

  • 1 cup CEREN Spicy Turnip Juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the bulgur: Place fine bulgur in a large bowl. Pour hot water over it, cover, and let it sit for 10 minutes until the grains absorb the water and soften. Fluff with a fork.

Make the köfte mixture: Add grated onion, CEREN Tomato Paste, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, egg, and flour to the softened bulgur. Knead the mixture by hand for about 5–6 minutes until it becomes firm and smooth. If it feels too soft, add a little more flour.

Shape the köftes: With damp hands, form small oval-shaped balls (about the size of a walnut). Place them on a tray dusted with flour to prevent sticking.

Cook the köftes: Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Drop the köftes in batches and cook until they rise to the surface (about 4–5 minutes). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add paprika and black pepper, then pour in CEREN Spicy Turnip Juice. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes to slightly reduce and intensify the flavors.

Combine and serve: Gently place the boiled köftes into the skillet with the sauce. Toss carefully until they are coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.