Turkey Kefta

Turkey Kefta - a Mediterranean delight full of flavors

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Turkey kefta is not just a simple recipe, but also a journey into the rich world of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe has its origins in ancient culinary traditions, where minced meat was transformed into the most delicious forms through the cooking process. The term "kefta" comes from the Persian verb "kuftan", which means "to grind", a subtle hint about how we will prepare this dish.

This is a versatile recipe, and turkey meat adds a lighter yet equally tasty note compared to other types of meat. Kefta can be served as an appetizer or main course, and when combined with simple sides, it becomes an excellent dish for family meals or parties with friends.

Ingredients:

- 800 g turkey meat (preferably minced, but you can use whole meat to grind)
- 1 green bell pepper (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 1 large green onion (for a milder flavor)
- 1/2 bunch of parsley (fresh and aromatic)
- 1/2 bunch of dill (sweet and fragrant)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to highlight the flavors)
- 2 teaspoons sweet paprika (for a hint of warmth)
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper (black or white, according to preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice (an exotic spice that brings a unique flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme (to give a Mediterranean touch)
- 1 egg (to bind the mixture)

Preparing Turkey Kefta:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the turkey meat into smaller pieces, making it easier to grind. Buy fresh, quality meat for better taste. Be sure to let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before using.

2. Grinding the ingredients: In a food processor, add the turkey meat, diced green bell pepper, finely chopped green onion, well-washed parsley, and dill. Grind everything until you achieve a homogeneous paste, but not too fine; we want to keep some texture from the ingredients.

3. Seasoning: Add salt, sweet paprika, pepper, allspice, and thyme, then the lightly beaten egg. Mix everything well with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients are homogeneous. It is important not to overwork the mixture, or the kefta will become tough.

4. Shaping the Keftas: Fill a plate with water to moisten your hands – this will prevent the mixture from sticking to them. Form meatballs the size of a golf ball or larger, depending on your preference. If you want to make skewers, stick a skewer into each meatball, ensuring it is well secured.

5. Cooking: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Add a little oil if you prefer, and place the keftas on the grill. Cook them for 5-6 minutes on each side. Make sure they are well browned and cooked evenly. A useful tip: do not turn them too quickly; wait for a nice crust to form before flipping.

6. Serving: Once cooked, transfer them to a platter and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting time will allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, making the flavor even more intense.

Recommended side: New potatoes with dill

To complement this dish, I recommend a simple side of new potatoes. Boil them for 10 minutes in salted water, drain, and place in an ovenproof dish. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and finely chopped dill. Bake at 220°C for 20 minutes until golden and crispy. A slice of lemon on the skewer alongside the kefta will add a touch of freshness.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. A serving of turkey kefta contains about 300 calories, providing a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Turkey meat is a low-fat option, rich in protein, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can replace turkey meat with lamb, chicken, or even beef, depending on your preferences.

2. What spices can I add?
You can experiment with spices like coriander, cumin, or even a bit of cinnamon for a more exotic flavor.

3. How can I store the keftas?
If you have leftover keftas, you can store them in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days or freeze them for later use.

4. What can I serve with the keftas?
Turkey keftas pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, a tray of grilled vegetables, or even a serving of rice or couscous.

Personal notes and tips

As you prepare this recipe, feel free to add a touch of your personality. A recipe is like a story – each ingredient and each spice brings a bit of who you are. Experiment with different herbs or add a bit of garlic for a more intense flavor.

Enjoy your meal and good luck in the kitchen! Surely, turkey kefta will become a family favorite!