Rice Kofta with Meat and Tahini Sauce – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Rice Kofta with Meat and Tahini Sauce – Ingredients and Preparation Method

Rice kofta with meat and tahini sauce is a delicious dish, perfect for the holy month of Ramadan, offering a rich blend of flavors and a healthy dose of protein from the meat.

In this article from Arabi Cook (Arabicook.com), we will provide the ingredients and step-by-step preparation method for rice kofta with meat and tahini sauce.

Ingredients for Rice Kofta with Meat and Tahini Sauce:

For the Kofta:

• 500 grams lamb (without fat), cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped green pepper
• 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
• 1 teaspoon mixed spices
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon apple cider or grape vinegar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ¼ cup finely chopped parsley
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Rice:

• 1 cup rice
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth

For the Tahini Sauce:

• 1 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
• 1 cup sliced onions
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts for garnish

Preparation Method:

Prepare the Kofta:

1. Make the Kofta Mixture:

   • In a bowl, mix the minced meat, green pepper, garlic, vinegar, salt, parsley, cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper. Combine well.

2. Prepare the Rice:

   • Rinse and soak the rice for 30 minutes in warm water, then drain.
   • In a pot, heat the butter or oil, add the chopped onions, and sauté until soft.
   • Add salt, black pepper, rice, and the hot broth.
   • Let the rice absorb the broth over high heat without covering it. Once absorbed, cover and cook over low heat for 10 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
   • Once the rice is ready, transfer it to a large bowl to cool slightly, then mix it with the meat mixture.

3. Shape the Kofta:

   • Wet your hands with water to make handling easier, then shape the rice and meat mixture into elongated finger shapes.
   • Grease a baking tray with butter or oil, arrange the kofta pieces tightly together, and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Tahini Sauce:

4. Sauté the Toppings:

   • In a pan, heat olive oil and fry the pine nuts until golden. Remove and set aside.
   • In the same pan, sauté the sliced onions until soft. Add salt, black pepper, and crushed garlic, stirring over low heat.

5. Make the Tahini Sauce:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini, water, and salt until smooth.
   • Pour the tahini mixture into the pan with the onions and bring to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat and simmer for a few minutes. Add the lemon juice at the end.

Assemble the Dish:

6. Combine and Bake:

   • Pour the tahini sauce over the baked kofta in the tray and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and transfer the kofta to a serving dish. Garnish with the toasted pine nuts and serve hot.

Enjoy this flavorful and hearty rice kofta with tahini sauce, perfect for any family gathering or special occasion!