Discover the aromatic world of Persian meatballs: Koofteh delight
Persian meatballs, also known as koofteh, are a true feast for the palate. Their unique flavor combines the sweetness of dried cherries, the crunch of pistachios, and the aroma of Middle Eastern spices, making them superior to other meatballs. Moreover, their texture is perfect—soft inside and crispy outside, and they hold together well during cooking.
These exceptional meatballs blend intense spices with the subtle sweetness of dried fruits. The secret lies not only in the excellent selection of ingredients but also in the preparation method, which makes the meatballs compact yet soft inside. The addition of pistachios adds a slight crunch, while dried cherries offer a pleasantly tangy taste. This dish impresses in both flavor and texture.
Persian meatballs – a recipe inspired by tradition
The history of koofteh dates back to ancient Persia, where culinary art was based on combining contrasting ingredients. Traditionally, these meatballs are made from lamb, but beef or a mix of both meats works just fine. Their uniqueness lies in aromatic additions like pistachios, which provide crunch, and dried cherries, which add a slight sweetness to the flavor mix.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
- 3.5 oz dried cherries
- 3.5 oz pistachios
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Preparation:
- Soak the dried cherries in warm water for 15 minutes.
- Finely chop the onion and garlic.
- In a bowl, combine the ground meat with chopped onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, and spices.
- Add the drained dried cherries and chopped pistachios.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Form small balls from the mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the meatballs on each side until golden.
- Serve the finished meatballs with rice, couscous, or bread.
Persian meatballs are a dish sure to delight any enthusiast of Middle Eastern cuisine. Their unique taste, aroma, and texture make them unforgettable. It's an ideal option for lunch or dinner that will satisfy the whole family and guests. Try this recipe and discover how delicious and aromatic Persian meatballs can be.
