Köfteci Pilavı

Köfteci Pilavı is a delightful Turkish rice dish that combines savory meatballs with fragrant rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, bringing the rich flavors of Turkish cuisine to your table.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 150 grams
• Ground beef or lamb - 200 grams
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato paste - 1 tablespoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Cumin - 1/2 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
• Vegetable oil - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 300 ml
• Lemon - 1, for serving

Steps

1. In a bowl, mix the ground meat with half of the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, paprika, and chopped parsley. Form into small meatballs, about 2.5 cm in diameter.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and the rest of the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the tomato paste to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Stir in the rice, ensuring it is well coated with the tomato mixture, then add the water. Bring to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the water.
7. While the rice is cooking, return the meatballs to the skillet to heat through for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
8. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and serve the meatballs on top, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Water: 0.3 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh herbs and vegetables.

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