Persian-style Meatball Soup (Aash-e Koofteh)

Aash-e Koofteh is a delicious Persian-style meatball soup that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This traditional Caspian cuisine dish is packed with aromatic herbs, spices, and tender meatballs, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for any occasion.

Persian-style Meatball Soup (Aash-e Koofteh)

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup rice
  • 1 onion, grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup yellow split peas
  • 1/4 cup dried dill
  • Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, rice, grated onion, parsley, cilantro, mint, turmeric, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
  2. In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil. Add the yellow split peas and meatballs, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Stir in the dried dill and lemon juice, then continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the soup has thickened slightly.
  4. Adjust the seasoning if needed and serve the Aash-e Koofteh hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
18g

Supplies

Large mixing bowl Large pot Knife Cutting board Measuring cups and spoons

Tools

Soup ladle Serving bowls Soup spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve the Aash-e Koofteh with warm flatbread or naan for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat or additional vegetables.

Cost

$15