This classic kofta recipe features juicy ground meat balls, flavored with aromatic spices, and simmered in a tangy tomato sauce. Serve with fluffy rice or warm pita bread for a satisfying meal that will please the whole family. With a total preparing time of 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of golf balls.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the kofta balls and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the cooked kofta from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and return the kofta balls to the skillet. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until the kofta are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with rice or pita bread.