If you´ve ever been to Turkey, you know how Turks love their köfte – the hand-made grilled patties from minced meat.
You can find them just about everywhere. From small street food vendours to fast food chain restaurants, they´re easily available for everyone to enjoy. Also the fanciest restaurants in Turkey take pride in serving their versions of Köfte to the gourmet eaters. Depending on the region, they come in so many variations, sizes and shapes but one thing is always common: all of them are healthy and packed with flavour.
The recipe I am sharing is a crowd pleaser. The healthy baked meatballs are made using two types of red meat which makes them exceptionally delicious. Dipping them in the pepper and tomato sauce makes them super moist. You can serve these as mezze, party food or main course with Turkish rice and salad on side.
What meat to use?
You can use lamb or beef mince. Or a mixture of both tastes even better.
What goes in the meatballs?
As mentioned above, Köfte can be prepared in many different ways. Each region, even each cook, have their own recipe of making them.
I keep the meatballs fairly mild and add more seasonings to the sauce. But whatever seasoning you decide for, don’t skip the breadcrumbs and the grated onion. They serve two purposes here. First, they help with the binding and prevent the meatballs from crumbling. Secondly, they keep the meatballs moist and juicy. Also, a through mixing of minced meat with rest of the ingredients is very important for a smooth texture.
How to shape Köfte?
You can make ovals, round balls or even flat patties. Make sure to keep a bowl of water on the side to wet the hands while shaping the köfte. It helps the meat from sticking to hands and shape nice, smooth, crack-free meatballs.
How to cook Köfte?
Grill, bake or cook in pan. I prefer baking in the oven!
You can cook them directly in the sauce as well but I prefer making both separately and then combining as per need. It allows me bake more than required and freeze some to use later.
What to serve with?
These meatballs are amazing served with Turkish pilaf, salad and a yoghurt dip.
Try the recipe, and let me know how it turns out. You can also follow the step-by-step directions in the Insta highlights. Then share your thoughts and photos on my Facebook page or Insta using the hashtag #chefonrhine.
Can’t wait to make these! What would you recommend, kneading the mixture with hand vs. using a food processor to combine ingredients? I’ve heard you are not suppose to work the meat too much as it makes the texture tough. Thoughts?
It look mouthwatering. I will soon give them a try
What is in the yoghurt dip and the orange dip? 🙂
What is the yoghurt dip made of? 🙂