Village-Style Turkish Bulgur Dumplings Stuffed with Beef 🌿

İçli Köfte (Turkish Stuffed Bulgur Meatballs) For the Outer Shell: * 2 cups fine bulgur wheat * 1 cup semolina * 1 tsp salt * 1 tsp paprika * 1 tbsp tomato paste * 1½ cups warm water * 1 egg For the Filling: * 500 g (1 lb) ground beef or lamb * 2 large onions, finely chopped * ½ cup chopped walnuts or pine nuts (optional) * 2 tbsp vegetable oil * 1 tsp salt * ½ tsp black pepper * ½ tsp ground cumin * ½ tsp red pepper flakes * 2 tbsp chopped parsley For Frying: *Vegetable oil Prepa the Filling: 1. Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the onions until soft. 2. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. 3. Stir in the salt, black pepper, cumin, and red pepper flakes. 4. Add walnuts or pine nuts if using. 5. Remove from heat, mix in the parsley, and let the filling cool completely. Prepare the Outer Shell 1. Place the bulgur in a large bowl and pour in the warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes. 2. Add the semolina, salt, paprika, tomato paste, and egg. 3. Knead the mixture for 10–15 minutes until smooth and pliable. If needed, add a little water while kneading. Shape the İçli Köfte... 1. Wet your hands with water. 2. Take a small ball of dough (about the size of a golf ball). 3. Hollow it out with your thumb to form a thin shell. 4. Fill with about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture. 5. Seal the opening and shape into an oval with pointed ends. Fry 1. Heat oil to 170–180°C (340–355°F). 2. Fry the stuffed meatballs in batches until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes. 3. Drain on paper towels. Serve Serve hot with lemon wedges, yogurt, fresh salad, or ayran. Makes about 20–25 pieces. A beloved Turkish classic made the village way — bulgur dumplings stuffed with flavorful beef 🌿🥟 In this video, we prepare traditional Turkish bulgur dumplings by hand, filling each one with a rich mixture of seasoned beef and aromatic spices. The outer shell is tender yet satisfying, while the savory beef filling stays juicy and packed with flavor. Carefully shaped and cooked using time-honored methods, these dumplings are a true celebration of homemade food and tradition. This is authentic village cooking — simple ingredients transformed through patience and skill. A hearty, comforting dish that has been enjoyed for generations, bringing together rustic flavors and the warmth of a family meal.