I love kofta with rice! It’s a traditional Middle Eastern dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. The dish consists of small meatballs made from minced beef, which are then cooked in a delicious tomato-based sauce and served with rice. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering with friends.
To make the kofta, you’ll need some essential ingredients, including minced beef, onion, garlic, parsley, dill, cilantro, rice, salt, black pepper, cumin, and dry coriander. These ingredients are mixed to form small meatballs that are then cooked in the tomato-based sauce. The sauce is made with tomato paste, tomato juice, garlic, broth cubes, water, sugar, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper.
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, then this is the perfect choice. With its unique blend of spices and flavors, this dish will become a family favorite. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why this is such a beloved Middle Eastern dish?
What Is Kofta?
Kofta is a popular dish in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisine that consists of balls or patties made from minced meat, spices, and sometimes vegetables. The word “kofta” is derived from the Persian word “kuftan,” which means “to beat” or “to grind.”
Cultural Significance of Kofta
Kofta is a popular dish in many Middle Eastern and South Asian countries, including Iran, Turkey, India, and Pakistan.
One of the reasons kofta is so beloved is because it is a versatile dish that can be made in many different ways. Some people make it with beef, while others use lamb or chicken. The spices and herbs used in the dish can also vary, depending on the region and the cook’s personal preferences.
In addition to being a delicious meal, kofta also has cultural significance. In many Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures, food is an important part of social gatherings and celebrations. Kofta is often served at weddings, Eid celebrations, and other special occasions.
Different Types of Kofta
Kofta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be found in many different cuisines around the world. Here are a few different types of kofta that you might encounter:
- Lamb kofta: Lamb kofta is a popular type of kofta that is made with ground lamb, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. It is often served with rice, salad, or pita bread.
- Beef kofta: Beef kofta is similar to lamb kofta, but it is made with ground beef instead of lamb. It can be seasoned with a variety of spices, and it is often served with a tomato-based sauce.
- Chicken kofta: Chicken kofta is a lighter version of kofta that is made with ground chicken, onions, garlic, and spices. It is often served with a yogurt-based sauce and a side of rice or salad.
- Vegetarian kofta: Vegetarian kofta is a meat-free version of kofta that is made with a variety of vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, peas, and onions. It can be seasoned with a variety of spices and served with a tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of minced beef
- 1 large onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- ½ cup of chopped parsley
- ½ cup of chopped dill
- ½ cup of chopped cilantro
- 1 cup of crushed rice (not powdered)
- 1 tbsp of salt
- 1 tsp of black pepper
- 1 tsp of cumin
- 1 tsp of dry coriander
- Olive oil
For the sauce:
- 2 tbsp of tomato paste
- 1 cup of tomato juice
4 cloves of minced garlic
1 broth cube
1 cup of water
1 tsp of sugar
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
½ tsp of salt
½ tsp of black pepper
How to make kofta with rice?
To begin, thoroughly rinse the rice in cool water. Soak the rinsed rice in clean water for 30 minutes. Drain the soaked rice completely. Using a food processor, grind the rice until it reaches a coarse consistency.
In the food processor, combine the ground meat, processed rice, and all remaining ingredients. Process the mixture until well-combined and a soft, cohesive dough forms.
With wet hands, shape the kofta mixture into medium-sized balls or cylinders (approximately 1 inch in diameter). Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the kofta in batches carefully until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Drain the fried kofta on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 20 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce, water, and seasonings (salt, black pepper, tomato paste, stock cube, and sugar). Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Gently add the fried kofta to the simmering sauce. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with white rice.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Mediterranean Salad: Serve kofta with a fresh Mediterranean salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a lemon and olive oil dressing for a refreshing and healthy meal.
- Tzatziki Sauce: Kofta pairs perfectly with a creamy tzatziki sauce made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. Serve the kofta and rice with a dollop of tzatziki on top for a delicious and flavorful meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers make a great side dish for kofta and rice. Toss the vegetables in olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting in the oven for a tasty and nutritious addition to your meal.
- Pita Bread: Serve kofta and rice with warm pita bread for a classic and satisfying meal. Fill the pita with kofta, rice, and your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions for a delicious and easy-to-eat meal.
Nutritional Information
A serving of kofta with rice (approximately 1 cup) contains around 280-300 calories, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. It is also high in protein, with around 15-20 grams per serving. Additionally, it contains a moderate amount of carbohydrates, with around 17-20 grams per serving.
If you are watching your sodium intake, it is important to be mindful of the amount of salt used in the kofta and rice. Some recipes may call for a significant amount of salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.
Storing and Reheating
Once you have made your delicious kofta, you may have leftovers that you want to store for later. The good news is it can be stored and reheated easily.
Simply place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days in the fridge. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
When reheating, you can use a microwave or a stovetop. If using the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat it on high for 2-3 minutes, or until it is heated through. If using the stovetop, add a little bit of water to the kofta and heat it over medium heat until it is heated through.
It is important to note that when reheating, you should make sure it is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Additionally, if you are reheating frozen kofta, make sure it is fully thawed before reheating.
Tips and Tricks
Firstly, when making the kofta mixture, make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly. Use your hands to knead the mixture until it’s well combined. This will ensure that the kofta has a consistent texture and flavor.
Secondly, when shaping the kofta, wet your hands with cold water. This will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands, making it easier to shape the kofta into balls.
Thirdly, when cooking the kofta, make sure to brown them on all sides. This will give them a nice crust and help to lock in the juices, keeping them moist and flavorful.
When it comes to the rice, I recommend using basmati rice. It has a lovely aroma and flavor that pairs well with the kofta. Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch, and add a pinch of salt to the water for extra flavor.
Finally, when serving the kofta, consider adding a side of tzatziki or hummus. These dips complement the dish perfectly and add a refreshing element to the meal.
Conclusion
I hope this article has given you a good idea of how to make delicious kofta with rice. I have found that using fresh ingredients and taking the time to properly season the meat can make a big difference in the flavor of the kofta.
When it comes to cooking the rice, I prefer to use a rice cooker to ensure that it comes out perfectly every time. Adding a few spices to the rice can also give it a nice flavor that complements the kofta well.
Overall, making kofta with rice is a great option for a tasty and filling meal. It’s easy to customize to your preferences and can be made in large batches to feed a crowd. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!
By the way, baba ganoush with roasted red pepper pairs perfectly with this kofta.
Get that recipe now (by clicking the image below):
