Sulu Köfte with a Twist

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 1/2 cup (100g) rice 1/2 cup (100g) rice
• 1 onion, grated 1 onion, grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 4 cups (950ml) beef or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) beef or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh mint, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh mint, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, rice, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, 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 walnut.
3. 3.
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot. Stir well to coat the meatballs.
5. 5.
   Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the rice is tender.
6. 6.
   Stir in the chopped parsley and mint. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. 7.
   Serve the Sulu Köfte hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Rinse the rice thoroughly before using to remove excess starch and ensure a fluffy texture.
• Fresh herbs — Add the chopped parsley and mint towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavors.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
• Serve Sulu Köfte with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• You can make the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
• Experiment with different herbs such as dill or cilantro for a unique twist.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.

Serving advice

Serve Sulu Köfte hot in individual bowls, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the meatballs.

Presentation advice

Present the Sulu Köfte in a deep bowl, allowing the meatballs to be showcased in the flavorful broth. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.