Cooking Class: Mercimek Köftesi (Lentil Balls) with a Turkish Grandma

Learn how to prepare Mercimek Köftesi (lentil balls), a classic Turkish dish made with red lentils, fine bulgur, and fresh herbs. These flavorful, bite-sized lentil patties are both healthy and satisfying - perfect as a light meal, appetizer or party snack. Taliha will show you step by step, sharing tips to make them just as delicious as in a Turkish home kitchen.

Meet the Instructor!

Taliha Sonsaat, from Turkey, has always had a gift for creating beauty with her hands. In her 30s, she taught sewing and embroidery, later running her own small textile atelier where she designed and sold handmade home products. She always enjoyed handcrafts, but above all, Taliha is most cherished as the heart of the kitchen - cooking with love for family, friends, her grandchildren and neighbors. Her meals are more than food; they are her love language, nourishing everyone lucky enough to gather at her table.

If you have specific dietary restrictions, please reach out to us in advance before signing up for the class at or by calling the co-op at 515-232-4094 and speaking with Sheba Wright, Education Coordinator.

Limited substitutions can be made during the class.

Also check out other Cooking events in Ames, Workshops in Ames, Arts events in Ames.