Persian meatballs: A savory blend of tradition and flavor
Persian meatballs, also known as koofteh, are a true feast for the palate. Their unique flavour combines the sweetness of dried cherries, pistachios' crunchiness, and Middle Eastern spices' aroma, making them far superior to other meatballs. Moreover, their texture is perfect—soft inside and crispy on the outside—and they do not fall apart during cooking.
These exceptional meatballs offer an engaging blend of intense spices and the subtle sweetness of dried fruits. Their secret lies not only in the excellent selection of ingredients but also in the preparation method, which results in compact yet soft meatballs. The pistachios add a gentle crunch, while the dried cherries taste pleasantly tangy. It's a dish that impresses both in flavour and texture.
Persian meatballs – a recipe inspired by tradition
The history of koofteh dates back to ancient Persia, where culinary art focused on combining contrasting ingredients. In the classic version, meatballs are made from lamb, but beef or a mix of both meats works just fine. Their uniqueness lies in the aromatic additions like pistachios, which provide crunch, and dried cherries, which introduce a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 450 g ground lamb (or beef),
- 100 g dried cherries,
- 100 g 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 the 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 meat mixture.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the meatballs on each side until golden.
- You can 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 truly unforgettable. They are an ideal option for lunch or dinner that will satisfy the whole family and guests. Try this recipe and see how delicious and aromatic Persian meatballs can be.
