“Izmir Meatballs,” also known as “İzmir Köfte” in Turkish, is a popular and delicious Turkish dish originating from the city of İzmir, which is located on the western coast of Turkey. İzmir Meatballs are well-loved for their flavorful blend of spices and herbs, as well as their tender texture. Here’s recipe of İzmir Meatballs
Grind 1.5 cups of bread crumbs and 1 onion in a food processor.
Add 1 egg, finely chopped ½ bunch of parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, thyme, and ground beef. Mix well.
Shape the mixture into thin and long fingers. Place them on a plate to rest.
Peel and slice 4 potatoes into wedges. It will look more elegant if the potatoes are the same size as the meatballs.
Heat oil in a pan (make sure it doesn't absorb too much oil) and fry the potatoes first, followed by the meatballs. (Do not overcook them, they should be taken out before fully cooked)
Arrange the potatoes and meatballs side by side on a baking tray.
In a separate saucepan, pour 3 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 dessert spoon of tomato paste. Mix well.
Add 3 grated tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes. You can also add garlic if desired. Add 1.5 cups of water to the sauce.
Pour the prepared sauce over the potatoes and meatballs, making sure it covers them completely to prevent them from drying out while cooking.
Place 1 peeled and sliced tomato and 2 green peppers (cleaned and cut) in between the potatoes and meatballs.
Before putting it in the oven, add 1 tea cup of hot water to the edge of the tray and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C until the potatoes turn golden brown.
Optionally, after 30 minutes, open the oven and drizzle some of the sauce from the tray onto the meatballs and potatoes. (It will be more flavorful)
Serve after cooking. Enjoy your meal.
