Turkish Herb-Braised Lamb Köfte with Bulgur-Walnut Pilaf & Charred Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

• 10 oz ground lamb, lean ground lamb
• 3/4 cup bulgur wheat, uncooked
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 medium onion, finely minced
• 3 whole garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp sumac, optional but recommended
• 3 medium roma tomatoes, halved
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, for serving

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add halved tomatoes cut-side down and char for 4-5 minutes until deeply caramelized. Remove and set aside.

2. 2

   In a bowl, combine ground lamb, minced onion, 2 tbsp minced parsley, 2 tbsp minced mint, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, sumac, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Form into 8 meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches each).