Savory Turkish Meatballs with Hearty Lentil Soup

Indulge in the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine with these juicy meatballs paired with a comforting lentil soup. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish combines aromatic spices and wholesome ingredients for a delightful meal that warms the heart and soul.

Ingredients

• 🍖Ground beef or lamb(1 lb)
• 🧅Onion, finely chopped(1 medium)
• 🧄Garlic, minced(3 cloves)
• 🌿Fresh parsley, chopped(1/4 cup)
• 🌶️Cumin(1 tsp)
• 🧂Salt(1 tsp)
• 🌶️Black pepper(1/2 tsp)
• 🍚Breadcrumbs(1/2 cup)
• 🥚Egg(1)
• 🥕Carrot, diced(1 medium)
• 🥬Spinach, chopped(1 cup)
• 🍅Tomato, diced(1 medium)
• 🥣Vegetable broth(4 cups)
• 🌿Bay leaf(1)
• 🌶️Paprika(1 tsp)

Instructions

1. 1.In a large bowl, combine ground beef or lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, salt, black pepper, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until well combined.
2. 2.Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. 3.Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
4. 4.Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
5. 5.Air fry the meatballs for 12-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
6. 6.While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the lentil soup. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat.
7. 7.Add diced carrot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in chopped spinach and cook for another 2 minutes.
8. 8.Add diced tomato, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender.
9. 9.Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
10. 10.Serve the meatballs hot alongside the lentil soup, garnished with extra parsley if desired.