Ingredients with Measurements:
- 500g lean ground beef
- 1 cup fine bulgur
- 1/2 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red pepper paste
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup pomegranate molasses
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh green onions
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tbsp. red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp. salt
- 1 tbsp. cumin
- 1 tbsp. black pepper
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Food processor or mortar and pestle
- Plastic gloves
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bulgur, tomato paste, red pepper paste, olive oil, pomegranate molasses, and lemon juice.
2. Mix the ingredients together with your hands until well combined and the mixture becomes sticky.
3. Add the chopped parsley, mint, green onions, cilantro, dill, and walnuts to the mixture and mix well.
4. Add the red pepper flakes, salt, cumin, and black pepper to the mixture and mix well.
5. Put on plastic gloves and knead the mixture for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. Take small pieces of the mixture and roll them into small balls or shape them into small patties.
7. Serve the çiğ köfte with lettuce leaves or flatbread.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature
Serving size:
- Makes about 30-40 small balls or patties
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 150 per serving
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 8g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or chicken can be used instead of beef
- If pomegranate molasses is not available, substitute with 1/4 cup of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of honey
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh garlic to the mixture for extra flavor
- Add chopped fresh mint to the mixture for a refreshing taste
- Add chopped fresh red onions to the mixture for a sweeter taste
Tips and tricks:
- Use plastic gloves when kneading the mixture to avoid staining your hands with red pepper paste
- Wet your hands with cold water when shaping the mixture to prevent it from sticking to your hands
- Serve the çiğ köfte with a side of lemon wedges to add extra tanginess
Storage instructions:
- Store the çiğ köfte in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Çiğ köfte is traditionally served cold, but can be warmed up in the microwave or on a stovetop if desired
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the çiğ köfte on a platter with lettuce leaves and lemon wedges on the side
Garnishes:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Pairings:
- Serve with Ayran (a Turkish yogurt drink) or a cold beer
Suggested side dishes:
- Hummus, baba ghanoush, or tabbouleh
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little bit of water or lemon juice
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little bit of bulgur
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing the dish
Food history:
- Çiğ köfte is a traditional Turkish dish that dates back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated in the southeastern region of Turkey and was originally made with raw meat. Today, it is made with cooked meat or no meat at all.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, tangy, and nutty
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or a main dish
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Region: Turkish