Köfte with Tomato Sauce

Köfte with Tomato Sauce is a flavorful Turkish dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich and aromatic tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a delightful blend of spices and fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• Ground beef - 250 grams
• Ground lamb - 100 grams
• Onion - 1 small, finely grated
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Canned crushed tomatoes - 400 grams
• Water - 100 ml
• Sugar - 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes - 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
• Fresh basil - for garnish

Steps

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 3-4 cm in diameter. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the canned crushed tomatoes, water, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer in the tomato sauce for 20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they are well coated.
6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Cholesterol: 85 mg
• Total Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Water: 0.1 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein, which helps in muscle building and repair.
• Contains healthy fats from olive oil, promoting heart health.

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