Kofta with bulgur recipe is a Middle Eastern-inspired recipe that features juicy ground beef mixed with fragrant spices and served over a bed of fluffy bulgur.
To make this dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: water, bulgur, ground beef, red onion, garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, kale, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano. Don’t worry if you’re missing a few of these items – swapping in different greens or cheeses is easy depending on your preferences.
Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delicious kofta with a bulgur dish.
What Is Kofta?
Kofta is a popular dish in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisine, made from ground meat mixed with various spices and herbs. The meat is typically beef, lamb, or chicken, but can also be made with vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian option.
The word “kofta” actually comes from the Persian word “kuftan,” which means “to beat” or “to grind.” This refers to the traditional method of preparing the meat by grinding it with a mortar and pestle until it becomes a smooth paste.
Kofta can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilled, baked, or fried. It can also be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as rice, flatbread, or salad.
One of the most popular variations of kofta is the Turkish-style meatball, which is made with ground beef or lamb and served with a tangy tomato sauce. Another popular variation is the Indian-style kofta curry, which is made with a creamy tomato-based sauce and served with rice or naan bread.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of bulgur
- 1 lb of ground beef
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped red onion + 1/4 cup slivered
- 2 medium cloves of grated garlic
- 2 tsp of ground cumin
- 3/4 tsp of salt, divided
- 1/2 tsp of ground pepper, divided
- 4 cups of packed chopped kale
- 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp of crumbled feta cheese
- 2 1/2 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp of red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp of dried oregano
How to Make the Kofta with Bulgur Recipe?
Certainly! Here’s a more professional way to understand the recipe:
- Begin by boiling the bulgur in a pot of water following the recommended package instructions to achieve the desired doneness. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and spread the bulgur on a baking sheet to facilitate cooling.
- While the bulgur cools, preheat your broiler to high. In a separate bowl, combine a measured portion of the cooked bulgur with ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, and the specified seasonings. Gently knead the ingredients until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing. Form the mixture into uniform patties of the desired size and thickness.
- Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange the kofta patties on it. Broil the patties, turning them once halfway through the cooking process, until they reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit for assured doneness.
- Concurrently with the kofta cooking, prepare the bulgur salad. In a large bowl, combine the remaining cooked bulgur with chopped kale, diced tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, and oregano. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste.
- To assemble the dish, plate the cooked kofta patties alongside the bulgur salad. This recipe offers a delicious and convenient option for a weeknight meal, with leftovers suitable for lunch the following day.
Serving Suggestions
- Pita Bread: Serve the kofta with bulgur in warm pita bread. Simply cut the pita bread in half and fill it with the kofta and bulgur mixture. You can also add some fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and onions to the pita for added flavor and texture.
- Salad: A fresh salad is always a great option to serve with kofta and bulgur. I like to make a simple Greek salad with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese. Drizzle some olive oil and lemon juice over the top and you have a delicious and healthy side dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a great addition to any meal. I like to roast some zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers and serve them alongside the kofta and bulgur. The roasted vegetables add a nice smoky flavor and a variety of textures to the meal.
- Yogurt Sauce: A simple yogurt sauce is a great way to add some creaminess to the kofta and bulgur. Mix some plain Greek yogurt, chopped cucumbers, garlic, and dill. Serve the yogurt sauce on the side and let your guests add as much or as little as they like.
Storing and Reheating Tips
It is important to keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help to keep them fresh for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to three months.
To reheat your kofta with bulgur, you can either use the microwave or the oven. If you are using the microwave, cover the container with a damp paper towel and heat it for 1-2 minutes. If you are using the oven, preheat it to 350°F and place the kofta with bulgur in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and heat it for 10-15 minutes.
It is important to remember that reheating the kofta with bulgur too many times can cause it to become dry and lose its flavor. So, it is best to only reheat it once or twice.
In addition, if you want to add some freshness to your reheated leftovers, you can serve them with a side of fresh salad or tzatziki sauce. This will help to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Nutritional Information
Calories
One serving of this dish contains approximately 450 calories. This may vary depending on the size of the kofta and the amount of bulgur used.
Protein
Kofta is a great source of protein, and this recipe is no exception. One serving of this dish contains about 30 grams of protein, which is roughly half of the recommended daily intake for an adult.
Carbohydrates
Bulgur is a great source of carbohydrates, and this recipe contains about 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving. This makes it a great meal for those who need a quick energy boost.
Fat
This recipe contains a moderate amount of fat, with approximately 23 grams per serving. Most of the fat comes from the meat used in the kofta.
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a great source of vitamins and minerals. It contains high amounts of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are essential for maintaining a healthy body.
Variations of Kofta with Bulgur
As I mentioned earlier, kofta with bulgur is a versatile dish that can be prepared in many different ways. Here are a few variations that I enjoy:
Lamb Kofta with Bulgur
Instead of using ground beef, try making kofta with ground lamb. Lamb has a distinct flavor that pairs well with the nuttiness of bulgur. You can also add some fresh herbs like mint or parsley to the lamb mixture for added freshness.
Vegetarian Kofta with Bulgur
For a meatless option, try making vegetarian kofta with bulgur. You can use cooked lentils or chickpeas as the base and mix in some spices, breadcrumbs, and eggs to bind everything together. This version is just as flavorful and satisfying as the meat version.
Kofta with Bulgur Salad
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try serving kofta with bulgur salad. Simply mix cooked bulgur with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, and mint. Top with grilled kofta and a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing and healthy meal.
Kofta with Bulgur Soup
For a comforting and hearty meal, try making kofta with bulgur soup. Simply add cooked kofta to a pot of vegetable or chicken broth along with some chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Let everything simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Pairing with Sides and Drinks
There are plenty of pairing options to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite sides and drinks to serve alongside this delicious dish:
Sides
- Salad: A crisp salad is the perfect complement to the rich flavors of kofta and bulgur. I like to make a simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon and olive oil dressing.
- Hummus: Hummus is a classic Middle Eastern side dish that pairs perfectly with kofta. Serve it with pita bread or vegetables for dipping.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers are a great way to add some extra flavor and nutrition to your meal.
Drinks
- Mint tea: Mint tea is a refreshing and traditional drink in many Middle Eastern countries. It’s the perfect complement to the warm spices in kofta.
- Lemonade: A cold glass of lemonade is a great way to cool down on a hot summer day. It also pairs well with the tangy flavors of kofta and bulgur.
- Water: Don’t underestimate the power of a simple glass of water! It’s the perfect way to hydrate and cleanse your palate between bites.
Conclusion
I hope you have enjoyed learning how to make kofta with bulgur recipe. In my opinion, this is a delicious and healthy meal that you can easily prepare at home.
Throughout this article, I have shared my personal experience and tips on making the perfect kofta with a bulgur recipe. By following the steps and using the right ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious dish that your family and friends will love.
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and trying new things. Don’t be afraid to adjust the recipe to your liking and add your unique twist. Whether you prefer spicy or mild flavors, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste buds.
In conclusion, kofta with bulgur recipe is a great option for a quick and easy meal that is both tasty and healthy. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!
As mentioned above, adding hummus to your kofta makes a perfect meal.
Get that recipe now (by clicking the image below):
