Kofta balls with spiced rice

Kofta balls with spiced rice is a delicious and flavorful Middle Eastern dish. Kofta balls are typically made from ground meat or a combination of meat and other ingredients, shaped into small, seasoned meatballs. They are often served with spiced rice and a sauce. Here’s a basic recipe for making this dish:Ingredients:

For the Kofta Balls:

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb (you can also use a combination of both)
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spiced Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain rice (such as basmati)
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
• Pita bread or flatbread (optional)

Instructions:

For the Kofta Balls:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix the ingredients together until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of golf balls.
4. Heat a grill, skillet, or oven to medium-high heat. Grill or cook the kofta balls until they are cooked through and have a nice char on the outside. This should take about 10-12 minutes.

For the Spiced Rice:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
2. In a pot, combine the rice, water (or chicken broth), ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork.

For the Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.

To Serve:

1. Serve the kofta balls on a bed of spiced rice.
2. Drizzle the yogurt sauce over the kofta and rice.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs.
4. Serve with pita bread or flatbread, if desired.

Kofta balls with spiced rice is a delightful and hearty Middle Eastern dish that offers a fantastic blend of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a special dinner or family gathering. Enjoy!