Cooking Classic Köfte : Turkish Stuffed Kibbeh | Mediterranean Food

ground beef

🥗Healthier: ground turkey

💰Cheaper: ground pork

Ground turkey is leaner and lower in calories.

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: chopped walnuts

Sunflower seeds are a more affordable nut alternative.

bulgur

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: rice

Quinoa offers a protein boost and is gluten-free.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil is a healthy alternative with a high smoke point.

Start by soaking 1 cup of bulgur in warm water for about 30 minutes until it softens.

After soaking, drain the bulgur and squeeze out any excess water.

In a mixing bowl, combine the bulgur with 1 pound of ground beef, 1 finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Knead the mixture for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.

Take small portions of the mixture and form them into balls, creating a hollow center with your fingers.

In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions until they are translucent.

Add the ground beef and pine nuts to the skillet and cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, mixing well.

Fill each bulgur ball with the meat mixture, making sure to seal them tightly.

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it's shimmering.

Carefully fry the stuffed köfte in the hot oil until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Once done, remove the köfte from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Serve the köfte hot, garnished with lemon wedges and chopped parsley.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: