Middle EasternMedium · Hot
Green Lentil Kofta with Za'atar and Mint Yogurt
Fragrant herb-crusted lentil kofta served alongside a bright mint yogurt sauce. The za'atar coating adds a nutty, tangy crust while the cooling yogurt ties everything together.
Prep
25 min
Cook
25 min
Rest
10 min
Total
1h
Method
Preparing the Lentils
1
Drain any excess water and spread lentils on a baking sheet to cool and dry out slightly, about 10 minutes.
Making the Kofta Mixture
2
Fold in the breadcrumbs gradually until the mixture holds its shape when pressed. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water.
Forming and Coating the Kofta
3
Press each kofta firmly into the za'atar mixture, coating all sides evenly. Set aside on a plate.
Cooking the Kofta
4
Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Keep warm.
Preparing the Mint Yogurt Sauce
Serving
6
Garnish with a sprinkle of extra za'atar and fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately while warm.
A
Nutri-Score
Excellent balance
A–E · lower is better · score -2
Calories
827
per serving
Source of protein · 37gSource of fibre · 12gLow sugar · 7g
Protein
37g
Carbs
99g
Fat
35g
Sat. fat
6g
Fiber
12g
Sugar
7g
Sodium
1366mg
VegetarianMediterraneanLegume RichHeart HealthyBlood Sugar BalanceAnti InflammatoryDigestive SupportWeight ManagementHigh ProteinHigh FiberPlant Forward
Nutri-Score is a general nutritional-balance guide, not medical or dietary advice.
B
Environmental impact
Low impact
A–E · lower is better · includes estimates
kg CO2e
0.6
per serving
BCarbonAEU all-round· carbon sets the grade
Water
1.2m³
Land
42Pt
Runoff
0.08g P
Greek yogurt drives 32% of this recipe’s estimated footprint.
Carbon from Poore & Nemecek 2018; water, land & runoff from Agribalyse — modelled averages for comparing recipes, not a measurement of your groceries.
Flavor Profile
7
Umami
4
Sweet
5
Salty
5
Sour
2
Bitter
3
Spicy
Textures
CrispyTenderCreamySmooth
Aromas
HerbalNuttyPungentSmokyCitrus
Kitchen Equipment
Primary Tool
Baking SheetBaking SheetMixing BowlChef KnifeCutting BoardMeasuring CupsMeasuring SpoonsSpatulaLemon JuicerPlastic WrapPaper TowelsParchment Paper
Counter FootprintMedium
Techniques
Safety & Storage
Cross Contamination
Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw lentils and before touching ready-to-eat foods. Use separate cutting boards for raw and prepared ingredients.
Cooking Temperature
Pan-fry kofta over medium-high heat (350-375°F) until golden brown on all sides, approximately 4-5 minutes per side, to ensure even cooking of the lentil mixture.
Storage
Store mint yogurt sauce separately in a sealed container refrigerated at 40°F or below. Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness and safety.
Shelf Life
Prepared kofta can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat to 165°F before serving.
High Risk Population
This dish contains dairy (Greek yogurt) which should be avoided by individuals with milk allergies or lactose intolerance.
Allergen Warning
This recipe contains sesame, wheat/gluten, and milk. Verify all ingredients are free from cross-contact if serving to individuals with severe food allergies.
Pro Tips
Technique
The lentil mixture should hold its shape firmly when pressed — if it crumbles, your lentils are too dry. A quick pulse in the food processor adds cohesion without overworking the herbs.
Substitution
If za'atar is hard to find, substitute with a blend of dried thyme, oregano, and toasted sesame seeds with a pinch of sumac for that signature nutty, tangy crust.
From the chef
These lentil kofta earn their place on any mezze spread through texture and restraint: the za'atar crust delivers a nutty, tangy snap against the herb-fragrant interior, while a cool mint yogurt alongside cuts the warmth with bright acidity. Green lentils give them substance without heaviness, and the cumin and parsley woven through every patty ensure each bite is aromatic from the inside out. Press them firmly so the crust holds, let the yogurt pool generously on the side, and bring them to the table while warm — this is the kind of dish that quietly becomes the one everyone returns to.
TagsMiddle EasternVegetarianLentilZa'AtarKoftaMezzeHerb CrustedMint Yogurt
AllergensMilkWheatSesame
Source: generated · June 10, 2026