Juicy, flavorful, and beautifully seasoned, these classic Turkish meatballs are a staple of home cooking throughout Türkiye. Made with ground beef, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, they are simple to prepare and perfect for serving alongside rice, salad, or crispy fried potatoes.
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium onion, chopped or minced
- 2 garlic cloves, grated or minced
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1½ tsp paprika
- 1½ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated onion, egg, garlic, parsley, tomato paste, paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, cumin, salt, and breadcrumbs.
- Add the beef.
Add the ground beef to the bowl and knead thoroughly for 3–5 minutes until all of the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture becomes smooth and cohesive.
- Rest the meat mixture.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to develop and helps the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
- Shape the meatballs.
Remove the mixture from the refrigerator and divide it into walnut-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten into a traditional oval or round köfte shape.
- Cook the köfte.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until deeply browned and cooked through.
- Serve.
Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot.
Chef’s Tip
For a traditional Turkish meal, serve these köfte with crispy fried potatoes, sautéed peppers, rice pilaf, fresh salad, and warm bread. A side of yogurt and a squeeze of lemon add a refreshing finish.
Make Ahead
The uncooked meat mixture can be prepared up to one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The shaped köfte also freeze beautifully for future meals.