Description of this recipe
These Beef, Green Olive & Sumac Koftas are a delightful fusion of flavors that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. Juicy beef mince is expertly combined with green olives, aromatic spices, and crunchy pistachios, creating tender koftas that are bursting with flavor. Served with a refreshing salad and creamy hummus, this dish is perfect for a vibrant meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe because it offers a unique twist on traditional koftas by incorporating green olives and sumac, which add a tangy depth of flavor. The addition of pistachios provides a delightful crunch, while the fresh salad complements the richness of the koftas. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile; it can be served as a main course or as part of a mezze platter. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights.
Introduction
Koftas are a beloved dish in many cultures, known for their savory flavors and satisfying texture. This particular recipe elevates the classic kofta by infusing it with the briny goodness of green olives and the tangy zest of sumac. The combination of spices, including cumin and coriander, creates a warm and aromatic profile that pairs beautifully with the fresh ingredients in the accompanying salad. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting meal, these Beef, Green Olive & Sumac Koftas are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 800g 12% fat beef mince
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 100g green olives, pitted and roughly chopped
- 50g pistachios, roughly chopped
- 2 tsp sumac
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp mild chili powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for frying
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 whole cucumber, deseeded and finely sliced
- 2 large handfuls of parsley leaves
- 50g pomegranate seeds
- Pinch of sumac
- 1 tbsp honey, for glazing
- Hummus, pickled chilies, and flatbreads for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: If you’re prepping ahead, line a freezer-proof container with baking parchment. In a large bowl, combine the beef mince, grated garlic, chopped green olives, chopped pistachios, sumac, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, chili powder, 1 tsp salt, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Using your hands, roughly form the mixture into koftas, using about 40g for each kofta. You should end up with approximately 24 koftas. If you’re preparing them for later, place them in the lined container, layering them with additional baking parchment if necessary. These koftas can be kept chilled for up to four days or frozen for up to three months.
Step 3: To prepare the salad, scrunch the sliced red onion with the lemon juice and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to lightly pickle. Afterward, mix in the finely sliced cucumber, parsley leaves, and pomegranate seeds. Season the salad to taste and transfer it to a serving bowl. Sprinkle a pinch of sumac over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 4: When you’re ready to cook the koftas, brush olive oil over a large frying pan or griddle pan and heat it over medium-high heat. If cooking from frozen, fry the koftas in batches, turning them often for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned all over.
Step 5: Once browned, pour in 200ml of water and cover the pan with a lid. Increase the heat to high and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the koftas are cooked through and the water has evaporated. Remove from heat and stir in the honey, tossing the koftas to coat them in the sweet glaze. If cooking from chilled, the koftas will take about 8-10 minutes to cook through.
COOKING Rating: 4.5/5
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the koftas on a large platter spread with creamy hummus, topped with the refreshing salad, and accompanied by pickled chilies and warm flatbreads. This dish is perfect for sharing, allowing everyone to create their own wraps or enjoy the flavors separately.
Tips:
- For a spicier kick, feel free to add more chili powder or serve with spicy harissa paste.
- Ensure the koftas are shaped evenly for consistent cooking.
- You can substitute beef mince with lamb or chicken for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or lentils as a base for the kofta mixture.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling/freezing time if applicable)
Nutritional Information:
Calories: Approximately 320 per serving (based on 4 servings)
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
These Beef, Green Olive & Sumac Koftas are a delightful and flavorful dish that will transport you to the vibrant streets of the Middle East with every bite. Their unique combination of ingredients and spices creates a memorable meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends at a gathering or savoring them on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I make these koftas ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the koftas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for up to three months. Just cook them from frozen or chilled as instructed. - What can I substitute for green olives?
If you’re not a fan of green olives, you can use black olives or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor. However, keep in mind that the taste will change slightly. - Can I bake the koftas instead of frying them?
Absolutely! You can bake the koftas in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are cooked through and browned. - What other dips can I serve with this dish?
In addition to hummus, you can serve tzatziki, baba ganoush, or a spicy harissa dip to complement the flavors of the koftas. - Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch of koftas and pair them with different salads or sides throughout the week for a variety of meals.