Discover the ultimate recipe for Kufta meatballs, a delicious Middle Eastern dish made from minced meat, aromatic spices, and rice. Often served in a savory broth, these tender meatballs are perfect for a comforting meal. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this flavorful and traditional dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

- 500g minced beef or lamb

- 1 cup cooked rice

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tsp ground cumin

- 1 tsp ground coriander

- 1 tsp paprika

- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1/4 tsp ground cloves

- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

- Salt to taste

- 1 egg, beaten

- 1 cup beef or chicken broth

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat Mixture:

  - In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, and spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and cayenne pepper if using).

  - Add the fresh parsley, cilantro, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

  - Stir in the beaten egg to help bind the mixture.

Form the Meatballs:

  - Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray.

Cook the Meatballs:

  - Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a little oil. Sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Prepare the Broth:

  - In the same pot, add the beef or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer.

Simmer the Meatballs:

  - Gently return the meatballs to the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Serve:

  - Serve the Kufta meatballs hot, with a side of rice or bread. Enjoy the savory broth and the rich flavors of this traditional dish.

Nutritional values

For the Recipe:

Minced Beef or Lamb (500g)

 - Calories: Approximately 250

 - Protein: 26g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fat: 17g

Total for 500g:

 - Calories: Approximately 1250

 - Protein: 130g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fat: 85g

Benefits: High in protein and essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Supports muscle growth and overall health.

Cooked Rice (1 cup)

 - Calories: Approximately 200

 - Protein: 4g

 - Carbohydrates: 45g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides energy from carbohydrates. A good source of various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins and manganese.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

 - Calories: Approximately 45

 - Protein: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and compounds that can support heart health. May help regulate blood sugar levels.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

 - Calories: Approximately 4

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Known for its potential immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. May also support heart health.

Ground Cumin (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 8

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Adds flavor and is rich in antioxidants. May aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Ground Coriander (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 5

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides antioxidants and may aid in digestion. Can help balance blood sugar levels.

Paprika (1 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 6

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Adds color and flavor. Rich in antioxidants, including vitamins A and E.

Ground Black Pepper (1/2 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 3

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances flavor and can aid in digestion. Contains piperine, which may help with nutrient absorption.

Ground Cinnamon (1/2 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 3

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides antioxidants and has potential anti-inflammatory properties. May help regulate blood sugar levels.

Ground Cloves (1/4 tsp)

 - Calories: Approximately 2

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and can have antimicrobial properties. May support digestive health.

Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp, optional)

 - Calories: Approximately 6

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Adds heat and may boost metabolism. Contains capsaicin, which can have anti-inflammatory effects.

Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)

 - Calories: Approximately 5

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Provides antioxidants and supports overall health.

Fresh Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)

 - Calories: Approximately 1

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins A and C. May aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Salt (to taste)

 - Calories: 0

 - Protein: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Egg (1, beaten)

 - Calories: Approximately 70

 - Protein: 6g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 5g

Benefits: High in protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals. Supports muscle health and overall nutrition.

Beef or Chicken Broth (1 cup)

 - Calories: Approximately 15-30

 - Protein: 2g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor and provides some protein and minerals. Can help with hydration and contribute to the overall flavor of the dish.