Oven-Baked Kofta with Tomatoes – A Hearty Meat Dish Full of Flavor

Oven-Baked Kofta with Tomatoes – A Hearty Meat Dish Full of Flavor

Meat dishes come in countless forms across Middle Eastern kitchens, and among the most beloved is kofta baked with tomatoes. This satisfying dish is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrition, thanks to its wholesome ingredients. There are many variations of oven-baked kofta, and today we bring you a classic version made with ground beef, tomatoes, and potatoes—a true comfort meal that’s perfect for family dinners.


Ingredients:

Oven-Baked Kofta with Tomatoes

 

For the Kofta:

  • 500 grams (about 1.1 lbs) of finely ground beef

  • ½ bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped

  • Salt, black pepper, and mixed spices to taste

  • 1 teaspoon of dried red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

  • 2 medium tomatoes, sliced

  • 2 medium onions, sliced into rings

  • 3 medium potatoes, sliced and half-fried in oil

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 1½ cups of water

  • 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon of dried red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt to taste


How to Prepare Oven-Baked Kofta with Tomatoes:

  1. Make the Kofta Mixture:
    In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped parsley, chopped onions, salt, pepper, spices, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

  2. Shape the Kofta:
    Form the meat mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut.

  3. Pre-Bake the Kofta:
    Place the kofta balls in a baking dish. Preheat the oven and bake the meatballs for 10 minutes, just until the excess moisture starts to evaporate.

  4. Add the Vegetables:
    Remove the dish from the oven. Arrange the tomato slices, partially fried potato slices, and onion rings around the meatballs.

  5. Prepare the Sauce:
    In a bowl, mix together all the sauce ingredients—water, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, and salt—until smooth and well blended.

  6. Pour the Sauce Over:
    Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the kofta and vegetables in the baking dish.

  7. Bake:
    Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and return it to the preheated oven at 200°C (390°F). Bake for 30 minutes, until everything is fully cooked and the flavors have melded beautifully.


Serving:

Remove from the oven and serve hot. This comforting kofta dish is perfect alongside rice, bulgur, or warm bread—and sure to be a favorite at any family table.

Enjoy with health and happiness!

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