Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fine bulgur
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped mint
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Skewers
- Grill or grill pan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, bulgur, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add chopped parsley and mint to the mixture and knead with your hands until the mixture becomes smooth and homogeneous.
3. Cover the mixture and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan.
5. Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a sausage-like form around the skewer.
6. Grill the köfte skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.
7. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the yogurt sauce.
8. Serve the köfte skewers hot with the yogurt sauce on the side.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
Grill or grill pan: medium-high heat
Serving size:
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground lamb or chicken can be used instead of beef.
- If you don't have bulgur, you can use breadcrumbs instead.
- You can use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a thicker sauce.
Variations:
- You can add grated carrots or zucchini to the köfte mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- You can add chopped walnuts or pistachios to the yogurt sauce for a crunchy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning.
- Wet your hands with cold water before shaping the köfte mixture to prevent it from sticking to your hands.
- Don't overcook the köfte skewers to prevent them from becoming dry and tough.
Storage instructions:
Leftover köfte skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the köfte skewers, place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the köfte skewers on a platter and drizzle the yogurt sauce on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and mint.
Garnishes:
Chopped parsley and mint
Pairings:
- Serve with a side of rice pilaf and grilled vegetables.
- Pair with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Suggested side dishes:
- Rice pilaf
- Grilled vegetables
- Turkish salad (cucumber, tomato, onion, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil)
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the köfte mixture is too dry, add a little bit of water or olive oil to moisten it.
- If the köfte skewers are falling apart on the grill, add an egg to the mixture to bind it together better.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the ground beef is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to prevent foodborne illness.
- Wash your hands and all utensils and surfaces that come into contact with the raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
Van köfte is a traditional Turkish dish that originated in the eastern city of Van. It is made with ground beef, bulgur, and spices, and is usually served with yogurt sauce.
Flavor profiles:
The köfte skewers are savory and spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the tomato paste. The yogurt sauce is tangy and creamy, with a garlicky flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the köfte skewers hot with the yogurt sauce on the side, along with a side of rice pilaf and grilled vegetables.
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Region: Turkish