These Middle Eastern-inspired farro-lentil balls are exactly what your dinner table needs for a creative twist on a classic.
Combining the nutty flavor of farro, the hearty texture of lentils, and a zesty tahini drizzle, this dish redefines comfort food in a Mediterranean way.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a wholesome meal for the family, these crunchy bites deliver bold flavors and versatility.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Dinner
This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. The farro and lentils provide a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal even for the hungriest eaters.
Paired with the creamy tahini sauce, the flavors are elevated to a level that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Plus, you can choose to fry or broil the lentil balls, adapting the cooking method to your preferences for crunchiness or convenience.
Tips for Customizing This Dinner Recipe
What makes this recipe shine is its adaptability. Whether you’re looking to cater to dietary preferences or explore different flavor profiles, here are a few ways to customize your farro-lentil balls:
- Make it vegan: Simply swap the egg for a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” substitute to keep the recipe plant-based.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to gluten-free guests.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or an extra chopped chili for a spicier kick.
- Boost the crunch: Toast some sesame seeds and sprinkle them on the balls or mix them into the breadcrumbs before frying.
No matter the modifications, this recipe remains a stellar choice for anyone craving a wholesome yet flavorful dinner option.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Dinner Table
The beauty of these farro-lentil balls lies in their versatility. Here’s how to make them the star of your dinner:
- As a main dish: Serve the balls over a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa with a side of roasted vegetables. Drizzle generously with the tahini sauce and a squeeze of lemon.
- In a wrap: Wrap these lentil balls in flatbread with fresh greens, yogurt, and pickled onions for a quick and easy Mediterranean-style dinner.
- As appetizers: Arrange them on a platter with a selection of dipping sauces like harissa yogurt or baba ganoush for an impressive starter at your next dinner gathering.
No matter how you serve them, these lentil balls are guaranteed to steal the show.
Time-Saving Tips for Easy Dinner Prep
Dinner doesn’t have to be stressful, and this recipe offers plenty of opportunities for meal prep:
- Prepare in advance: Shape the farro-lentil balls a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
- Batch cooking: Make a double batch and freeze half for future dinners. These balls reheat beautifully in the oven.
- Make the tahini sauce ahead: Whip up the tahini sauce a day in advance and keep it chilled in the fridge. It’s a time-saver and intensifies the flavors as it sits.
With these time-saving tips, you’ll have a stress-free dinner ready in no time.
A Mediterranean-Inspired Dinner Everyone Will Love
Middle Eastern farro-lentil balls are not just a recipe—they’re an experience. From their irresistible crunch to their vibrant, bold flavors, they embody the heart of Mediterranean cooking.
This dinner recipe is perfect for those who appreciate wholesome, plant-forward meals that don’t skimp on flavor or versatility.
So the next time you’re searching for a show-stopping dinner idea, give these farro-lentil balls a try. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to be a favorite.
Middle Eastern Farro-Lentil Balls Recipe for Dinner
Equipment
- food processor
- Skillet or baking sheet for frying/broiling
Ingredients
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt plus more as needed
- ⅓ cup green French lentils or brown lentils
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup farro
- 1 small onion diced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves plus more for garnish
- 4 garlic cloves 3 whole, 1 grated or minced
- 1 fresh red chili or jalapeño seeded and coarsely chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus more for frying or drizzling
Tahini Sauce:
- ⅓ cup tahini
- 6 tablespoons warm water
- Juice of ½ lemon plus lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Lentils: In a small pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the lentils and bay leaf. Simmer partially covered for 25 to 40 minutes, until the lentils are tender. Once cooked, drain the lentils and discard the bay leaf.
- Cook the Farro: In another medium pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the farro and cook until it becomes very soft, even more tender than you might want for a salad, about 25 minutes (though it may take up to an hour depending on the type of farro). Monitor the water and add more if needed. Drain the farro thoroughly.
- Blend the Base Mixture: Place the diced onion, parsley, cilantro, whole garlic cloves, chili, cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, paprika, and 1 ½ teaspoons of kosher salt in a food processor. Blend until everything is finely minced. Add the cooked farro to the processor and pulse until the mixture becomes a rough paste with broken-down grains, which should take about 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the processed mixture to a large bowl and add the cooked lentils, bread crumbs, beaten egg, and olive oil. Mix everything together thoroughly with your hands until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Shape the mixture into balls or football-shaped pieces about 1 ¼ inches in size.
- Cook the Balls:To Fry: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with about ¼ inch of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add a batch of the farro-lentil balls, ensuring they have enough space to brown evenly. Fry until they are crisp and golden brown on all sides, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil as needed.To Broil: Place the formed balls on one or two rimmed baking sheets, ensuring they do not touch. Drizzle with olive oil and broil for 6 to 10 minutes, turning them frequently to ensure even browning. Shake the baking sheets occasionally to help cook all sides.
- Prepare the Tahini Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, grated garlic, warm water, and lemon juice until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if necessary.
- Serve the Dish: Serve the farro-lentil balls on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges. Pair with the tahini sauce for dipping or drizzle it over the balls directly. These can be enjoyed as a standalone dinner, tucked into pita with greens and yogurt, or served as a party appetizer.
Notes
- These balls can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before frying or broiling.
- For an authentic touch, serve with pita, mixed greens, yogurt, and pickles.
- They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for a dinner gathering or as a main dish.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.