Kuzu İzmir Köfte｜Smyrna Meatballs｜Turkish Meatballs in Tomato Sauce｜Authentic Izmir Kofte Recipe

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Oats are a healthier option, while crushed crackers are often less expensive.

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is lower in fat, while ground pork can be a cheaper alternative.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Finely chop the onion and garlic.

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, parsley, bread crumbs, egg, cumin, black pepper, and salt.

Mix the ingredients until well combined.

Form the mixture into oval-shaped meatballs.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish.

In the same skillet, add tomato paste, water, and lemon juice; stir to combine.

Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the baking dish.

Slice potatoes and arrange them around the meatballs.

Add bay leaves to the dish.

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the potatoes are tender.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens