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Uncover the Flavor of Turkey: A Guide to Köfte

What is Köfte?

Köfte, a staple of Turkish cuisine, is a type of seasoned meatball often made with lamb. These flavorful bites can vary greatly depending on the region, with some recipes incorporating bulgur, rice, or breadcrumbs, while others are meat-only.

Preparing Köfte at Home

To prepare authentic köfte, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and some special equipment. Start by forming the lamb mixture into flat meatballs, then broil them in the oven until cooked through. For a more traditional experience, use wide, flat wooden skewers and grill them over medium-high heat.

Special Equipment Needed

To achieve the perfect köfte, you’ll need:

• Wide, flat wooden skewers
• Four standard 4-1/2-pound bricks (available at most hardware stores)

Game Plan: Indoor Preparation

To prepare köfte indoors, set your broiler to high and arrange a rack in the middle of the oven. Form the lamb mixture into flat meatballs and place them on a baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching. Broil until the köfte are no longer pink in the middle, about 10 minutes.

Ingredients and Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground lamb
• 1 medium garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 cup grated red onion
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh Italian parsley
• 2 teaspoons ground sumac
• 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika

Instructions:

1. Heat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high (about 375°F).
2. Arrange the foil-covered bricks on one side of the grill grate.
3. Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
4. Combine all ingredients in a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
5. Mix on medium speed until evenly incorporated and the meat appears sticky, about 5 minutes.
6. Check the seasoning by forming a small, thin patty and pan-frying until cooked through.
7. Divide the meat mixture into 8 portions and form into sausage shapes around the skewers.
8. Refrigerate the skewers until the grill is ready.
9. Place the skewers on opposite bricks, cover the grill, and cook for 8-9 minutes, turning occasionally.
10. Serve over flatbread with sumac and onion salad, yogurt, and pickled vegetables.

Experience the Authentic Taste of Turkey

With these simple ingredients and instructions, you can bring the flavors of Turkey to your own kitchen. So go ahead, give köfte a try, and discover the delicious world of Turkish cuisine!