Berbere-Spiced Turkey & Lentil Protein Bites with Spiced Honey Tahini
These bite-sized flavor bombs fuse Ethiopian berbere spice with protein-packed ground turkey and lentils. Quick-cooking and naturally gluten-free, they're served with an addictive sweet-savory tahini sauce. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining, offering 25g protein per serving with minimal cleanup!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 cup cooked lentils (canned, drained)
- 2 tbsp berbere spice blend
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp coconut flour
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- For Sauce: 1/3 cup tahini, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 2 tbsp water
- Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line baking sheet with parchment.
- 2. Mash lentils in bowl until half-pureed. Add turkey, berbere spice, onion, egg, coconut flour and garlic.
- 3. Mix until just combined (don't overwork). Roll into 28 small balls (1 tbsp each).
- 4. Bake 18-20 mins until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F.
- 5. While baking: Whisk all sauce ingredients until smooth. Add more water if needed.
- 6. Plate warm bites on serving platter. Drizzle generously with sauce.
- 7. Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro leaves.
- 8. Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Chef's Note
For extra crispy bites, broil 1-2 mins at end. Substitute ground chicken for similar results.
Make-Ahead Tips
Store unbaked balls in fridge 24 hrs or freeze raw. Sauce keeps 5 days refrigerated.
Substitutions
Use chickpea flour instead of coconut flour. Maple syrup can replace honey.
Tags:
Appetizers & Snacks