Grilled Kofta with Tomatoes: A Flavourful Feast
Kofta is a beloved dish enjoyed
across the Middle East and beyond, celebrated for its robust flavours and
versatility. One particularly delightful variation is grilled kofta with
tomatoes, a recipe that brings together the smokiness of grilled meat with the
sweetness of roasted tomatoes. Let’s dive into how to make this mouth watering
dish step-by-step.
Ingredients:
To prepare grilled kofta with
tomatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Kofta:
- 500g ground lamb or beef (or a mix of both)
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Tomatoes:
- 4 medium tomatoes, halved or thickly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh mint or parsley leaves
- Squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions:
1.
Prepare the Kofta Mixture:
o
In
a large bowl, combine the ground meat with grated onion, garlic, parsley, and
spices. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
o
Divide
the mixture into small portions and shape them into elongated patties or balls.
If you’re using skewers, mold the mixture around them for easy grilling.
2.
Season the Tomatoes:
o
In
a separate bowl, drizzle olive oil over the tomato slices and sprinkle with
dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat.
3.
Grill the Kofta and Tomatoes:
o
Preheat
your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent
sticking.
o
Place
the kofta on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning occasionally,
until they are cooked through and have a nice char.
o
Add
the tomato slices to the grill during the last few minutes of cooking. Grill
each side for 2-3 minutes, until they soften and develop grill marks.
4.
Serve and Enjoy:
o
Arrange
the grilled kofta and tomatoes on a platter. Garnish with fresh mint or parsley
and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
o
Serve
hot with pita bread, a side of yoghurt sauce, or a simple salad for a complete
meal.
Tips for Success:
- Choose Quality Meat:
High-quality ground lamb or beef with significantly different flavours and textures.
- Pre-Chill the Mixture: Refrigerate the kofta mixture for 20-30 minutes before
shaping. This helps it hold together better during grilling.
- Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick or ground
coriander for additional depth.
Grilled kofta with tomatoes is delicious and visually stunning, with its vibrant colours and inviting
aroma. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to
impress. Try it out and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home!
The article is developed by : AI
