Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 cup fine bulgur
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 1 tbsp. red pepper paste
- 1 tbsp. paprika
- 1 tbsp. cumin
- 1 tbsp. salt
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup water
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Food processor
- Plastic gloves
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bulgur, tomato paste, red pepper paste, paprika, cumin, and salt. Mix well with your hands until fully combined.
2. Add the chopped parsley and green onions to the mixture and continue to mix with your hands.
3. In a food processor, blend the lemon juice, olive oil, and pomegranate molasses until fully combined.
4. Pour the lemon juice mixture over the meat mixture and mix well with your hands until fully combined.
5. Put on plastic gloves and knead the mixture for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes soft and pliable.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the tahini and water until fully combined.
7. Serve the çiğ köfte with the tahini sauce on the side for dipping.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: None
Temperature:
Room temperature
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb can be used instead of ground beef.
- If pomegranate molasses is not available, you can use lemon juice instead.
Variations:
- Add chopped mint leaves for a refreshing twist.
- Add chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Add chopped dried apricots for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use plastic gloves to knead the mixture to prevent staining your hands.
- Soak the bulgur in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using to soften it.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper paste to your desired level of spiciness.
Storage instructions:
- Store the çiğ köfte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Serve at room temperature.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve on a platter with lettuce leaves and lemon wedges for garnish.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
- Lettuce leaves
Pairings:
- Ayran (Turkish yogurt drink)
- Turkish tea
Suggested side dishes:
- Tabouli salad
- Hummus and pita bread
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little more bulgur.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
Food history:
- Çiğ köfte is a traditional Turkish dish made with raw meat and bulgur. It is believed to have originated in southeastern Turkey.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, tangy, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or a main dish.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Turkish
Taste: Spicy, Savory, Tangy, Nutty, Herbaceous