Turkey Meatballs Recipe Kitchn from www.thekitchn.com
Introduction
Turkish cuisine is known for its rich flavors and spices. One of the most popular dishes is Turkish meatballs, or köfte. These delicious meatballs can be made with a variety of meats, such as beef, lamb, or chicken, and are typically served with a side of rice, salad, and bread. In this article, we will be sharing a traditional Turkish meatballs recipe that is easy to follow and perfect for those who want to experience the flavors of Turkey in their own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the meatballs: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 onion, grated - 1 egg - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon cumin - 1/2 teaspoon paprika - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 1/4 cup parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup mint, chopped For the sauce: - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 tablespoon red pepper paste - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 cup water - Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, parsley, and mint. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. 2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. 3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. 4. Cook the meatballs for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. 5. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. 6. To make the sauce, add the tomato paste, red pepper paste, and olive oil to the same skillet. Cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the paste is fragrant and slightly browned. 7. Add the water to the skillet and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. 8. Add the meatballs back to the skillet and stir gently to coat them in the sauce. Let the meatballs cook in the sauce for another 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through. 9. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional parsley and mint if desired.
Nutrition
This recipe makes about 20 meatballs, and each serving (4 meatballs) contains approximately: - 250 calories - 18g protein - 10g fat - 20g carbohydrates - 2g fiber - 2g sugar - 560mg sodium These meatballs are a great source of protein and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. They are also gluten-free if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Turkish meatballs are a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to your own tastes by adjusting the spices and herbs. Try serving the meatballs with a side of rice, salad, and bread for a complete and delicious meal. We hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious Turkish meatballs!
