Baked kofta with tomatoes is a delicious and hearty Middle Eastern dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party with friends. The combination of juicy tomatoes and flavorful meat is simply irresistible.
To make this dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients, including lamb or beef mince, onions, parsley, 7-spice, chili flakes, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, pine nuts, and flat-leaf parsley and lemons for serving. Don’t worry if you can’t find all of these ingredients at your local grocery store – many specialist delis and grocers carry baharat spice mix and other Middle Eastern ingredients.
Exploring Kofta
History of Kofta
Kofta is a dish that has been around for centuries and has been enjoyed by people all over the world. Kofta started in the Middle East, where nomadic tribes made it to preserve meat. They would mix ground meat with spices and shape it into small balls, which were then dried in the sun. These balls could be stored for months and were a great source of protein for the nomads.
Over time, kofta evolved and became a popular dish in many parts of the world. In India, kofta is often made with vegetables and served in a spicy gravy. However, in Turkey, kofta is made with lamb and served with yogurt sauce. In Greece, kofta is known as keftedes and is made with ground beef and herbs.
Varieties of Kofta
There are many different varieties of kofta, each with its unique flavor and texture. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Beef kofta: Made with ground beef and spices, beef kofta is a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for a hearty meal.
- Lamb kofta: Made with ground lamb and spices, lamb kofta is a popular dish in many Middle Eastern countries.
- Chicken kofta: Made with ground chicken and spices, chicken kofta is a lighter alternative to beef or lamb kofta.
- Vegetarian kofta: Made with vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and peas, vegetarian kofta is a great option for those who do not eat meat.
No matter what type of kofta you prefer, one thing is for sure: this dish is a true culinary delight that has stood the test of time.
Ingredients:
- 1kg of lamb or beef mince
- 2 finely chopped medium onions
- 2 cups of finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
- 1 tablespoon of 7-spice
- 1/2 teaspoon of chilli flakes
- 3 crushed garlic cloves
- 1kg of thickly sliced mixed tomatoes (I used cherry, baby yellow, and Roma)
- Olive oil, to drizzle
- 60g of toasted pine nuts
- Chopped parsley and sliced lemons (for serving)
How to make baked kofta with tomatoes?
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In a large bowl, combine ground meat, finely chopped onion, parsley, 7-spice, chili flakes, and minced garlic. Season generously with salt and pepper. Using your hands, mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Divide the seasoned meat mixture into 20 equal portions. Roll each portion into a cylindrical log shape, approximately 8cm long and 2cm thick.
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While shaping the kofta, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
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In a separate bowl, toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper to coat evenly.
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Arrange the formed kofta logs in a single layer within a large oven-proof dish. Scatter the prepared tomatoes over the kofta. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the kofta is cooked through and the tomatoes are tender.
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For a final touch, garnish the baked kofta with toasted pine nuts, chopped fresh parsley, and lemon slices before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
I prefer to pair kofta with a light and refreshing side dish that complements the savory flavors of the kofta. A simple salad of cucumber, tomato, and red onion dressed with lemon juice and olive oil is a great option. The acidity of the lemon juice helps cut through the richness of the kofta, while the fresh vegetables add a nice crunch and texture. For a heartier side dish, consider serving the kofta with a side of rice pilaf or roasted vegetables.
Presentation Tips
To make this dish look as good as it tastes, try these presentation tips. Firstly, arrange the kofta on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, to add a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some sumac over the kofta for a tangy and slightly sour flavor. Serve the kofta with a side of yogurt sauce or tahini sauce for dipping. Finally, consider serving the kofta family-style, allowing your guests to help themselves and creating a cozy and communal dining experience.
Storing and Reheating
Firstly, if you have any leftovers, it’s important to store them properly. You can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, if you plan on storing them for longer, it’s best to freeze them instead.
To freeze this dish, simply place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When it comes to reheating, there are a few different methods you can use depending on your preference.
One option is to reheat them in the oven. Simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the kofta in an oven-safe dish, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Another option is to reheat them in the microwave. Place the kofta in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the kofta: Baked kofta can easily become dry and tough if overcooked. To avoid this, keep an eye on the kofta while it’s baking and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s cooked through.
- Skipping the resting period: Allowing the kofta mixture to rest for at least 30 minutes before shaping it into balls can help the flavors meld together and make the kofta more tender. Don’t skip this step!
- Not using enough seasoning: Kofta can be bland if not seasoned properly. Be sure to taste the mixture before shaping it into balls and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Conclusion
After trying out this recipe for baked kofta with tomatoes, I have to say that I am thoroughly impressed. The combination of juicy tomatoes and flavorful kofta meatballs makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
I found that the recipe was easy to follow and didn’t require too much prep work, which is always a plus in my book. Additionally, the use of lean ground beef and baking instead of frying the kofta made this dish a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
One thing to note is that the recipe calls for a fair amount of spices, so if you’re not a fan of bold flavors, you may want to adjust the seasoning to your taste. However, if you’re like me and love a good kick of spice, you won’t be disappointed.
Overall, I would highly recommend giving this baked kofta with tomatoes recipe a try. It’s a great way to switch up your usual dinner routine and impress your taste buds with something new and delicious.
As already mentioned, rice pilaf is a perfect pairing for a hearty meal.
Get its recipe now (by clicking the image below):
