Meat > Kofta

Kofta (Meatballs) Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Mixing spoon
- Baking sheet
- Frying pan

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
3. Place the flour in a shallow bowl and roll each ball in the flour to coat.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Add the meatballs to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve hot.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving Size: 4-6

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
- Parsley and cilantro can be substituted with other herbs such as basil or oregano.
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil or coconut oil.

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped mushrooms to the mixture for a more flavorful meatball.
- Add 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs to the mixture for a firmer texture.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to form the meatballs as evenly as possible so they cook evenly.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more flour.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water.

Storage Instructions:
Kofta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Kofta can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or in a microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Kofta can be served over a bed of rice or couscous, or with a side of vegetables.

Garnishes:
Kofta can be garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro, or with a dollop of plain yogurt or tzatziki sauce.

Pairings:
Kofta pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, couscous, or a salad.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Couscous
- Salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the meatballs are not cooking evenly, make sure to form them as evenly as possible.
- If the meatballs are sticking to the pan, make sure the pan is hot enough before adding the meatballs.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to cook the meatballs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make sure to store the cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Food History:
Kofta is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is believed to have originated in Turkey. It is made with ground meat, herbs, and spices, and is usually served with a side of rice or couscous.

Flavor Profiles:
Kofta has a savory flavor with hints of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions:
Kofta can be served as an appetizer, main course, or side dish.

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Region: Middle Eastern

Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Rich, Flavorful