Kofta with tahini recipe is a Middle Eastern dish made with spiced ground meat, shaped into balls or patties, and grilled or baked. The addition of tahini sauce takes this dish to the next level, adding a creamy and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the savory meat.
To make this recipe, you will need ground beef, chopped parsley, red onion, and white flour. For the tahini sauce, you’ll need tahini paste, warm water, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Don’t worry, the recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
History of Kofta with Tahini
Kofta, which is essentially meatballs, has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. “Kofta” or “kūfta” in Persian means “to pound” or “to grind.” This refers to the traditional method of making kofta, which involves grinding meat with spices and other ingredients to form a paste that is then shaped into balls.
Tahini, on the other hand, is a paste made from ground sesame seeds that is widely used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. It has been a popular ingredient in the region for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Babylon.
The combination of kofta and tahini is a relatively recent development, but it has quickly become a beloved dish in the Middle East and beyond. The creamy, nutty flavor of tahini pairs perfectly with the spicy, savory flavor of kofta, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 500 gr of ground beef (80% lean)
- 50 gr of chopped parsley
- 1 cup of chopped red onion
- 1 tbsp of white flour
- ½ cup of tahini paste
- 1-1.5 cups of warm water
- 4 tbsp of lemon juice
- 1 tsp of salt (to season the ground beef)
- ½ tsp of salt (for the tahini)
- ½ tsp of black pepper
How to Make the Kofta with Tahini Recipe?
Seasoning the Beef:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, parsley, and red onion. Using your hands, gently mix everything until well incorporated.
- Transfer the seasoned ground beef mixture to a baking pan. Spread it evenly into a uniform layer, ensuring it covers the entire pan.
Preparing the Tahini Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini paste, water, lemon juice, and salt until the tahini is fully dissolved and the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
Cooking
- Preheat your oven to broil. Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil, creating small perforations in the foil for steam to vent. Simmer the seasoned ground beef on the stovetop for 10 minutes, or until most of the juices have released. Avoid overcooking the beef.
- Remove the foil from the pan and pour the tahini sauce evenly over the cooked ground beef. Transfer the pan to the oven and broil for 10 minutes, or until the top of the beef is golden brown and slightly caramelized.
- Let the dish cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your seasoned ground beef with creamy tahini sauce alongside rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
There are plenty of options for side dishes that complement the dish’s flavors. One popular choice is a simple salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the kofta and tahini, making for a well-rounded meal.
Another great option is roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. The smokiness of the roasted vegetables pairs perfectly with the savory kofta, and the tahini sauce adds a creamy element to the dish.
For those who prefer something heartier, consider serving kofta with a side of rice pilaf or couscous. The grains help soak up the flavorful sauce and provide a satisfying base for the dish.
Garnishing Tips
To take your kofta with tahini to the next level, consider adding some garnishes to enhance the presentation and flavor of the dish. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
A dollop of harissa or hot sauce can add some heat and depth to the dish, especially for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Finally, consider serving the kofta with a side of warm pita bread. Not only does the bread make for a great vehicle for scooping up the kofta and tahini sauce, but it also adds a comforting element to the meal.
Health and Nutrition Information
One of the main ingredients in this recipe is lean ground beef, which is an excellent source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, and it also helps to keep you feeling full for longer periods. This recipe also includes a variety of vegetables, such as onions and parsley, which provide important vitamins and minerals.
Tahini, which is made from ground sesame seeds, is another key ingredient in this recipe. Sesame seeds are a good source of healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails, as well as supporting brain function.
To make this recipe even healthier, you can use whole-wheat pita bread instead of white pita bread. Whole wheat is a great source of fiber, which helps to regulate digestion and keep you feeling full. You can also serve this dish with a side of mixed greens or a salad to increase your intake of vegetables.
Storing and Reheating
Here are some tips on how to store and reheat your kofta with tahini:
- Store the kofta with tahini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator.
- When reheating, it is best to use an oven or toaster oven to maintain the texture and flavor of the kofta. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and place the kofta on a baking sheet. Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- If you are in a hurry, you can also reheat the kofta with tahini in the microwave. Place the kofta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- To prevent the tahini sauce from drying out, you can add a little bit of water or lemon juice before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overworking the Meat
One of the most common mistakes when making kofta is overworking the meat. When you overwork the meat, it becomes tough and dry. To avoid this, handle the meat as little as possible. Mix the ingredients gently and then form the kofta into the desired shape.
Using Too Much Salt
While salt is an essential ingredient in kofta, using too much can ruin the dish. It is important to taste the mixture before forming the kofta to ensure that it is properly seasoned. Remember that the tahini sauce will also add saltiness to the dish, so be careful not to overdo it.
Not Letting the Meat Rest
After broiling the kofta, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. If you cut into the kofta too soon, the juices will escape, leaving you with a dry and tough dish.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed learning about my kofta with tahini recipe! As I mentioned earlier, this is one of my favorite dishes to make for family and friends. The combination of flavorful kofta and creamy tahini sauce is always a hit.
Throughout this article, I’ve shared some tips and tricks for making the perfect kofta, including using fresh herbs and spices and cooking the meat to the proper temperature. I’ve also provided a simple recipe for tahini sauce that pairs perfectly with the kofta.
Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try new things and make adjustments to suit your taste preferences. With a little practice, you’ll be a kofta-making pro in no time!
Thank you for reading, and happy cooking!
Need an extra creamy flavor? Add baba ganoush with eggs.
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