Kefta Meatballs: Flavor-Packed Balls of Awesomeness!
Hey foodies! Today, we’re diving into the world of kefta meatballs – those juicy, flavor-packed balls of awesomeness that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. If you haven’t tried them yet, get ready for a mouthwatering adventure that’ll leave you drooling for more.
First things first, what the heck are kefta meatballs? Well, kefta is basically a Middle Eastern and North African version of meatballs, but let me tell you, these little guys come with a twist that will make your regular ol’ meatballs jealous!
To whip up these savory delights, you’ll need some simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Ground meat is the star of the show here – beef, lamb, sausage, or a mix of all three works like a charm. Mix in some onions, garlic, parsley, dill, and mint; and spice it up with cumin, paprika, sumac, Aleppo pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it hot! Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Then, get your hands dirty and mix everything together like you mean it!
Now, the fun part – shaping the kefta meatballs. Roll the meat mixture into small, golf ball-sized rounds, and give them a little squish between your palms. You want them to cook evenly and get that lovely caramelization on the outside.
Time to cook these bad boys up! You can grill them on the BBQ, pan-fry them in a skillet, or even bake them in the oven – whatever floats your boat! The key here is to cook them until they’re browned and cooked through, but still juicy and tender on the inside.
Once they’re cooked, you can serve kefta meatballs in a gazillion different ways! Go traditional and stuff them inside warm pita bread with some tangy tzatziki sauce, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of sumac. It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth! Or, do like I did and put them on some fluffy rice and drizzle them with a zesty lemony dill sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
But wait, there’s more! Kefta meatballs are so versatile; you can put your own creative spin on them. How about tossing them in a spicy tomato sauce and serving them over a plate of spaghetti? Or make a kefta burger with all your favorite toppings – cheese, lettuce, tomato, you name it!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different herbs and spices. Add some cilantro or even grated cheese to the mix. Let your taste buds be your guide!
The best part about kefta meatballs is that they’re perfect for any occasion – be it a laid-back weeknight dinner, a fancy party appetizer, or a family BBQ. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone!
So, next time you’re craving some meatballs with a twist, give kefta meatballs a shot. You won’t be disappointed – they’re scrumptious, easy to make, and will instantly transport you to the streets of Marrakech or the markets of Istanbul.
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and exploring new flavors, so go ahead and get your kefta groove on. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share the love (and the recipe) with your foodie friends!
Happy cooking! 🍴😊
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Kefta Meatballs with Lemon Dill Rice
Description
🍢 Craving some exquisite flavors from the Mediterranean? Look no further! Introducing my mouthwatering Kefta Meatballs! 🤩🍽️ These succulent and spiced delights will transport you straight to the streets of Morocco!
Ingredients
1 large white onion
4 garlic cloves
1 tablespoon paprika
1 ½ teaspoons cumin
1 ½ teaspoons ground sumac (can substitute finely zested lemon)
1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 ½ teaspoons Aleppo pepper (can substitute ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup fresh parsley
¼ cup fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons mint
2 pounds ground meat, sausage, beef, chicken, etc.
For the Rice:
Olive oil
1 ½ cups rice
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups water
2 lemons zested and juiced
3 tablespoons dill, chopped
For the Sour Cream Dill Sauce:
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayo
1 lemon, zested and juiced
3 tablespoons dill, chopped
Kosher salt TT
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
Place the onion and garlic in a food processor and process until it is finely chopped. Add the paprika, cumin, Sumac, salt, Aleppo pepper, black pepper, and cinnamon; and process again, so the spices are worked into the vegetables. Add the parsley, cilantro, and mint and process once more until it is well combined. Remove to a large mixing bowl. Add the meat and using your hands, mix the vegetables and meat together quickly; so you don’t over work the meat. This will be a soft mixture.
Form 2 ½ inch balls with the meat and place on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature is 165F.
Meanwhile, make the rice. Heat olive oil in a saucepan. Add the rice and heat it for a minute or so, until it starts to pearl. Pour in the water and salt and bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 17 minutes; or until the rice is cooked through and has absorbed the water. Put the lemon zest and juice and the dill in a serving bowl. When the rice is done, add it to the serving bowl and toss gently with the lemon juice, zest, and dill. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve with the meatballs.
Make the sour cream dill sauce by whisking all ingredients together.
When the meatballs are done, remove from oven and serve with the rice and the sour cream dill sauce. It is also delicious with my lemony bread sauce (recipe to come). 😊
