Armenian Topik with a Twist

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed 4 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
• 200g (7oz) ground beef 200g (7oz) ground beef
• 200g (7oz) ground lamb 200g (7oz) ground lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Olive oil for brushing Olive oil for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, ground beef, ground lamb, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, pepper, parsley, and mint. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. 3.
   Take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. 4.
   Roll each potato ball in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. 5.
   Place the coated potato balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6.
   Lightly brush the potato balls with olive oil.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato balls are golden brown and crispy.
8. 8.
   Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and lamb — Make sure to use lean ground meat for a healthier option. If desired, you can substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter variation.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the mashed potato mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the filling.
• To make the potato balls even crispier, you can lightly spray them with cooking oil before baking.
• Serve the Topik with a side of tangy yogurt sauce or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.
• Leftover potato balls can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a quick and satisfying snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Armenian Topik as a main course accompanied by a fresh salad or as an appetizer for a gathering. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch of elegance.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown potato balls on a platter, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or parsley. Serve with a side of yogurt sauce and a lemon wedge for squeezing over the Topik.