International > Middle Eastern > Persian

Taftan Kofta Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- Salt to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Mixing spoon
- Frying pan
- Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, cardamom, black pepper, cinnamon, cilantro, mint, yogurt, breadcrumbs, and eggs. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Add the kofta balls to the pan and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove the kofta from the pan and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high
Serving Size: 4-6

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 25g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- Garam masala can be substituted with curry powder.
- Fresh cilantro and mint can be substituted with dried herbs.
- Plain yogurt can be substituted with Greek yogurt.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed crackers or oats.

Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or beans.
- For a spicier version, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.

Tips and Tricks:
- For a crispier texture, add more breadcrumbs to the mixture.
- For a more flavorful kofta, add more spices to the mixture.

Storage Instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the kofta with a side of steamed rice or naan bread.

Garnishes:
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and a dollop of plain yogurt.

Pairings:
Pair with a side of sautéed vegetables or a salad.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Steamed rice
- Naan bread
- Sautéed vegetables
- Salad

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the kofta is too dry, add more yogurt or breadcrumbs to the mixture.
- If the kofta is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to the mixture.

Food Safety Advice:
Be sure to cook the kofta until they are cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.

Food History:
Taftan Kofta is a traditional dish from the Middle East, typically served as an appetizer or side dish.

Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a savory flavor with a hint of spice from the garam masala and chili powder.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or side dish with a side of steamed rice or naan bread.

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Region: Iranian

Taste: Savory, Spicy, Tangy, Aromatic, Herbal