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Kofta Tagine

Tender spiced lamb meatballs simmered in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, a comforting Egyptian one-pot meal.

50 minEasyServes 4310 cal/serving

EgyptianDinnerStovetopStandard

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 1/2 med onion, finely minced
  • 4 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 med onion (for sauce), diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 lg red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz can)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp paprika

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a bowl, combine 1 lb ground lamb, 1/2 med finely minced onion, 4 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

  2. 2

    Shape the mixture into 12 to 16 small meatballs.

  3. 3

    Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or tagine over medium-high heat.

  4. 4

    Carefully add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes. Do not move them too much. Remove and set aside.

  5. 5

    In the same pot, add 1/2 med diced onion (for sauce) and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.

  6. 6

    Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  7. 7

    Add 1/2 lg diced red bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes.

  8. 8

    Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

  9. 9

    Pour in 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz can) with their juices. Add 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon and 1/4 tsp paprika.

  10. 10

    Return the meatballs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce.

  11. 11

    Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 160°F.

  12. 12

    Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot with rice or bread.

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Questions

How much time should I plan for Kofta Tagine?

As written, 50 minutes: 20 of prep and 30 of cooking. The longest single stretch is step 11 (20 minutes): "Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are cooked through."

What internal temperature should Kofta Tagine reach?

For Kofta Tagine, the target internal temperature is 160 F (about 70 C), given in step 11. A probe thermometer removes the guesswork.

Why does Kofta Tagine say not to overmix?

Step 1 reads: "Mix gently until just combined." Stirring develops gluten, and gluten makes quick batters tough and tunneled. Stop at step 1 while a few streaks of flour remain; they hydrate on their own.

Can I use ground beef instead of ground lamb in Kofta Tagine?

Yes, at the same weight. The flavor is milder; a pinch more cumin or an extra clove of garlic closes the gap. As written, the entry for Kofta Tagine uses 1 lb ground lamb.

How long does Kofta Tagine keep?

Refrigerate what is left of Kofta Tagine within two hours and eat it within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. It also freezes well for up to three months.

Serve it with

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