Cookbook:Egyptian Meatballs (Kofta)

Egyptian Meatballs (Kofta)
Category	Egyptian recipes
Difficulty

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Egyptian meatballs, also known as kofta, are a popular and savory dish in Egyptian cuisine. These delicious meatballs are typically made from ground beef or lamb mixed with a variety of herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful and juicy texture. Egyptian meatballs can be enjoyed on their own as a main course or used in other dishes like sandwiches or wraps.

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for added spice)
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Olive oil, for brushing

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skewers (metal or wooden)
• Grill or stovetop grill pan
• Knife
• Brush

Procedure

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, ground cumin, ground paprika, ground cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Take a small portion of the meat mixture and shape it into a cylindrical or oval meatball shape. Repeat the process with the remaining meat mixture, shaping them into uniform-sized meatballs.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium heat.
5. Thread the meatballs onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each meatball.
6. Brush the grill or grill pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
7. Place the meatball skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The meatballs should be browned and cooked through.
8. Once cooked, remove the meatball skewers from the grill or grill pan and transfer them to a serving platter.
9. Serve the kofta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. They can be enjoyed on their own as a main course or used in sandwiches, wraps, or other dishes.