Twisted Beef Koftas (Middle-Eastern Meatballs)

YourCakeIWillTake's Note:

Traditionally made with lamb and mint, this is my own altered version of the scrumptious Indian dish. These meatballs are pretty spicy, so season to your known preferences. I like to use lots of pepper and cayenne and minimal salt. The prep time can be cut by preparing the ingredients in a food processor. All measurements are approximate, feel free to use what you have on hand! There are many ways to serve them. My favorite method is in a fresh, warm pita with a cucumber-yogurt sauce or with terriyaki and a handful of onions. My boyfriend likes to eat his with spicy mustard. Or for a flavor crossover use them as meatballs for spaghetti! Try a cool, light salad as a side, and don't forget dessert!

• Total Time: 35 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 2-4

Yield: 15.0 meatballs

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion , finely chopped
• 1 medium potato , peeled, grated
• ½ cup cilantro , finely chopped
• 1 -4 garlic clove , finely chopped
• ½ bell pepper , finely chopped (optional)
• 1 egg
• 3 teaspoons teriyaki sauce or 3 teaspoons soy sauce
• ground black pepper , to taste
• cayenne pepper , to taste
• garlic salt or seasoning salt , to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Mix all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl until well-blended (using your hands works best).
3. Form golf-ball sized meatballs from the mixture and place, without touching, on an ungreased baking sheet.
4. Bake until slightly browned and cooked through (approximately 20-25 minutes).
5. Serve 'em up hot! (See Recipe Description for Suggestions).

Reviews

[Sandi (From CA)]

We're not fans of lamb (except the living version), so I was pleased to come upon your "twist" on these koftas. I used kashmiri chili powder for more chili flavor with a little less heat and halved the recipe. I opted for soy sauce and used garlic powder instead of garlic salt. I also roasted the bell peppers because I seem to be on a vegetable roasting kick lately. Great little meatballs that I served with pitas and Cucumber Raita. Thank you for posting! *Made for PAC Fall 2008.*