Oaxacan-style Harput Köftesi

Ingredients

In this Oaxacan adaptation of Harput köftesi, we incorporate Oaxacan spices and flavors to give the dish a unique twist. The traditional Turkish köftesi is typically seasoned with Mediterranean spices like cumin and paprika, while the Oaxacan version uses a blend of spices such as Mexican oregano, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Additionally, the sauce is inspired by Oaxacan cuisine, featuring tomatoes, chilies, and herbs commonly used in Oaxacan dishes. We alse have the original recipe for Harput köftesi, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Mexican oregano, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, 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 vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same skillet, add the diced tomatoes and green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.
6. 6.
   Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. 7.
   Serve the Oaxacan-style Harput köftesi hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef — Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
• Mexican oregano — Mexican oregano has a stronger flavor compared to Mediterranean oregano. If you can't find Mexican oregano, you can substitute it with dried marjoram or a combination of dried oregano and thyme.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or use hotter chilies.
• Serve the Oaxacan-style Harput köftesi with warm tortillas or rice for a complete meal.
• You can make the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.

Serving advice

Serve the Oaxacan-style Harput köftesi as a main dish with a side of warm tortillas or rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meatballs on a platter and pour the sauce over them. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for an attractive presentation. Serve with warm tortillas or rice on the side.