Kuftehs(Meat Balls)
Kuftehs are flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, combining spices and mashed potatoes for a tender, hearty dish perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground chuck, beaten eggs, flour, grated onion, mashed potatoes, salt, pepper, turmeric, and garlic powder until well blended.
- Form the mixture into 2-inch meatballs, adding more flour if necessary to help them hold together.
- Brown the meatballs in olive oil over medium heat in a nonstick skillet.
- Carefully transfer the browned meatballs to a medium saucepan and add the can of whole tomatoes.
- Cover the saucepan and simmer on low for 10 minutes.
- Serve the kuftehs with pita bread toast.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of ground chuck. You can also substitute mashed sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for added flavor. If the mixture seems too wet, incorporate a bit more flour or breadcrumbs to help the meatballs hold together better. Ensure even cooking by turning the meatballs gently while browning. Serve with a side of tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Kuftehs are delightful when served with warm pita bread or alongside a fresh salad. Consider pairing them with Mediterranean recipes like Mediterranean Six Layer Dip for an appetizer spread. For a complete meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a side of rice. Drizzle some tahini sauce on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover kuftehs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Cover the skillet to ensure even warming. You can also microwave them for a quick reheating option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kuftehs(Meat Balls) contains roughly 1408 calories, with 31g protein, 253g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (68% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and protein (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the kuftehs before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Form them and place on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
What can I use instead of whole tomatoes?
If you don’t have whole tomatoes, crushed or diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute. You can also use tomato sauce for a smoother texture. Just be sure to adjust seasoning to taste, as sauces may vary in flavor intensity.
How can I make these kuftehs gluten-free?
To make gluten-free kuftehs, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or almond flour. Ensure that any other ingredients, like the canned tomatoes, are also gluten-free. This will maintain the integrity of the dish while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).