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How to make Qofte Me Qepe, Albanian Lamb Meatballs with Onion/Tomato Sauce, with Chef John Beilfuss!

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Recipe Information

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Video-Specific Recipe

Qofte Me Qepe

Cultural Context

Qofte Me Qepe, or Albanian meatballs, have their roots in the rich culinary traditions of the Balkans. Often served during family gatherings and festive occasions, these meatballs highlight the use of fresh herbs and spices, showcasing the region's love for bold flavors. Today, they are enjoyed not only in Albania but also in neighboring countries, each adding their unique twist to the recipe, making them a beloved dish across the region.

AlbanianALmain
45 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion
1 cup bread crumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin

Quantities are estimated based on standard recipes for your convenience. The actual ingredients used in this video are accurate.

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner, while ground pork is often less expensive.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Oats provide fiber and are often more nutritious.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits while being versatile.

1

Chop onion finely and sauté in olive oil until translucent, about 5 minutes.

2

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

3

Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

4

Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.

5

Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat until shimmering.

6

Fry the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

7

Transfer the browned meatballs to a baking dish.

8

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

9

Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

10

Serve hot with a side of yogurt or salad.

Cooking Techniques

sautéingmixingshapingfryingbaking

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️

Allergens

glutenegg

Also Known As

Albanian MeatballsQofte

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