Akçaabat Köftesi with a Northern European Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Turkish Akçaabat Köftesi is infused with Northern European flavors. The original recipe typically includes ingredients such as parsley, cumin, and red pepper flakes, which are replaced with dill, thyme, nutmeg, and allspice to give it a Scandinavian twist. Additionally, the traditional yogurt sauce is retained to maintain the essence of Turkish cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Akçaabat köftesi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 250g (0.55 lb) ground lamb 250g (0.55 lb) ground lamb
• 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying) 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• For the yogurt sauce: For the yogurt sauce:
• 1 cup Greek yogurt 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat: 25g (total), 9g (saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (total), 2g (sugars)
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, dill, thyme, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
3. 3.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
4. 4.
   While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the yogurt sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, chopped mint, and salt in a bowl. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
5. 5.
   Serve the Akçaabat Köftesi with the yogurt sauce on the side. Garnish with additional fresh dill or mint, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and lamb — Use lean cuts of meat for a healthier option. If desired, you can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
• Fresh dill and thyme — If fresh herbs are not available, you can use dried herbs instead. However, reduce the quantity by half as dried herbs are more potent in flavor.
• Greek yogurt — Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the meatball mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.
• Serve the meatballs with a side of lingonberry jam for a traditional Scandinavian touch.
• These meatballs can be made in advance and refrigerated. Simply reheat them in the oven before serving.
• If you don't have access to ground lamb, you can use all ground beef instead.

Serving advice

Serve the Akçaabat Köftesi with a Northern European Twist as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad and some crusty bread. Alternatively, you can serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy handling.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs on a platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh dill or mint. Place a small bowl of the yogurt sauce in the center for dipping. For an elegant touch, serve the meatballs on individual small plates with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika.