Koofteh (persian Meatballs With Tomato Sauce)

Koofteh is a classic Persian dish consisting of flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting and aromatic dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.

Koofteh (persian Meatballs With Tomato Sauce)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, grated
  • 1/2 cup cooked rice
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped mint
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, grated onion, cooked rice, parsley, mint, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the finely chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add the crushed tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and sugar. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
  4. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  5. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large bowl Skillet Cooking spoon Cutting board Knife Measuring cups and spoons

Tools

Stovetop

Serving suggestions

Serve the Koofteh with fluffy basmati rice and a side of tangy yogurt for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of saffron to the tomato sauce while simmering the meatballs.

Cost

$15