Oven-baked meatballs with sesame sauce - Kofta bi tahini

Oven-baked meatballs with sesame sauce - Kofta bi tahini

If you're looking for a delicious recipe that combines intense flavors with a juicy texture, oven-baked meatballs with sesame sauce are the perfect choice. This recipe, inspired by rich culinary traditions, will bring an explosion of tastes to your table, being easy to prepare and full of flavor. Here’s how to achieve the best meatballs, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g minced beef (or lamb)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Kofta spices (pepper, cumin, cinnamon, coriander, ginger, nutmeg)
- 2 large potatoes
- 2 lemons
- 4 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
- Hot water, enough to partially cover the meatballs

Recipe history:

Kofta, a recipe with deep roots in culinary history, has been prepared over the centuries in various forms and with different types of meat. This meatball recipe with sesame sauce pays tribute to gastronomic traditions that have crossed generations, combining simple techniques with basic ingredients to create a delicious dish.

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by preparing the ingredients. Wash the parsley well and chop it finely. This will add not only flavor but also a note of freshness to your meatballs. The onion should also be finely chopped. If you have a food processor, use it to save time.

Step 2: Mixing the composition

In a large bowl, add the minced meat, onion, and parsley. Sprinkle the kofta spices and salt, then mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition. This is the moment you can play with the seasoning: if you like stronger flavors, don’t hesitate to add an extra pinch of cumin or cinnamon.

Step 3: Forming the meatballs

Moisten your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking and form equal-sized meatballs, making sure to give them a cylindrical shape. Place them in a baking tray, leaving a little space between them for even baking.

Step 4: Preparing the potatoes

Wash and slice the potatoes thinly. Arrange them in the middle of the tray, around the meatballs, and sprinkle salt and pepper on top. This detail will not only add flavor but also contribute to a delicious side dish.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. Pour hot water into the tray, being careful not to cover the meatballs. Place the tray in the oven and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. After this time, reduce the temperature to 180 degrees Celsius and continue baking for another 25 minutes, until the meatballs become golden and appetizing.

Step 6: Preparing the sesame sauce

Meanwhile, while the meatballs are baking, prepare the sesame sauce. In a small bowl, combine the 4 tablespoons of sesame oil, the juice of the two lemons, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well, then gradually add a cup of hot water to achieve a thinner consistency.

Step 7: Finalizing the dish

After the 25 minutes of baking, remove the tray from the oven and pour the sesame sauce over the meatballs. Put the tray back in the oven and let it sit for another 10 minutes, for the sauce to perfectly blend with the meatballs.

Serving and suggestions

Oven-baked meatballs with sesame sauce are served hot, alongside a side of plain rice or boiled rice with noodles. Add a crunchy touch with assorted pickles for a delicious contrast. You can also add a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Variations and tips

If you want to add a personal touch to your recipe, you can try replacing the minced beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. You can also add grated vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to the meatball mixture to make them healthier and more flavorful.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beef or lamb is an excellent source of protein, while parsley adds essential vitamins like vitamin C and K. Sesame oil, besides its unique taste, is rich in healthy fats, promoting cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other spices?
Yes! You can play with flavors by adding spices like paprika or cayenne for a spicy note.

2. What else can I serve with these meatballs?
Besides rice, you can serve the meatballs with warm pita or various salads, such as tabbouleh or tomato and cucumber salad.

3. Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Of course! You can form the meatballs and freeze them. When you're ready to serve, you can bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

I hope this recipe for oven-baked meatballs with sesame sauce brings you joy and delicious flavors in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!