The Delicious and Easy Kofta Recipe
If you’re a fan of meatballs, then you’re going to love kofta! Kofta, also known as kofte, is a popular Middle Eastern and South Asian dish made from ground meat, typically beef, lamb, or chicken. It is seasoned with various spices and herbs, then shaped into small balls or patties and cooked to perfection. In this recipe, we’ll be making Afghani kofta, a flavorful and aromatic variation that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 500 grams ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, paprika, chili powder (if using), chopped cilantro, and chopped mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Make sure the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Take a small portion of the meat mixture and shape it into a ball or a patty. Repeat this process until all the meat mixture is used.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the kofta balls or patties to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches if necessary.
- Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. You can also grill or bake them if you prefer.
- Once the kofta are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve the kofta hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tzatziki or mint yogurt sauce. They can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
There you have it – a simple and mouthwatering recipe for Afghani kofta! These flavorful meatballs are perfect for any occasion and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, kofta is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich flavors of the Middle East and South Asia in the comfort of your own home.
