Algerian Kefta (Meatballs)
Algerian Kefta, also known as Algerian meatballs, is a traditional dish that is a staple in Algerian cuisine. Kefta is a popular dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions. The dish is made with ground meat, typically beef or lamb, mixed with a variety of herbs and spices, and then formed into small meatballs. These meatballs are then cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce and served with couscous, rice, or bread.
Prep Time:
30 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
1 hr
Servings:
3
Yield:
12 patties
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Combine the ground beef with half of the minced garlic and a tablespoon of chopped onion. Mix with your hands until fully incorporated. Shape the meat mixture into 1 1/2-inch oblong patties; you should have 12 to 14 meatballs.
Step 2
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the patties in batches until they are crispy on both sides and are no longer pink in the center, about 10 minutes. Set the meatballs aside in a rimmed serving dish and repeat with the remaining patties.
Step 3
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the remaining chopped onion. Add salt and pepper. Cook the onions in the drippings, stirring constantly, until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the remaining half of the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4
Stir in the roma tomatoes, dried parsley, ras el hanout, and water. Cook until the tomatoes are soft, about 5 minutes. Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs and serve.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
424
Calories
32g
Fat
5g
Carbs
28g
Protein
Complement
Algerian Kefta is a dish that is loved for its rich and savory flavors, as well as its comforting and hearty nature. The meatballs are often seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, and coriander, which give them a fragrant and aromatic taste. The tomato-based sauce that the meatballs are cooked in adds a tangy and slightly sweet element to the dish, making it a well-balanced and delicious meal. Algerian Kefta is a dish that represents the warmth and hospitality of Algerian culture, and its popularity has spread beyond the country's borders, making it a beloved dish in various parts of the world.
