Appetizers and Snacks

Turkish Stuffed Meatballs Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful dish to impress your guests, look no further than Turkish stuffed meatballs, also known as “İçli Köfte”. This traditional recipe combines a crispy bulgur shell with a savory meat filling, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. Follow this detailed, step-by-step guide to create this delicious Turkish stuffed meatballs recipe right at home.

Ingredients

For the Shell:

  • 2 cups fine bulgur
  • 1 cup semolina
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste

For the Filling:

  • 300 grams ground beef or lamb
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shell Mixture

  1. Soak the Bulgur and Semolina:
    • In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of fine bulgur and 1 cup of semolina.
    • Pour 1 cup of hot water over the mixture, cover, and let it soak for about 10 minutes until it softens.
  2. Mix and Knead:
    • Add the egg, 2 tablespoons of flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika to the bulgur mixture.
    • Knead the mixture thoroughly until it becomes a cohesive dough. This might take around 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Cook the Filling:
    • In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
    • Add the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
    • Season with salt, black pepper, cumin, and paprika.
    • If desired, add the chopped walnuts for extra crunch.
    • Stir in the chopped parsley and remove from heat. Let the filling cool.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

  1. Form the Shells:
    • Wet your hands to prevent sticking. Take a walnut-sized piece of the bulgur dough and flatten it in your palm.
    • Create a small well in the center of the dough with your thumb.
  2. Stuff the Shells:
    • Place a teaspoon of the meat filling into the well.
    • Carefully close the dough around the filling, shaping it into an oval or a ball.
    • Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.

Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Meatballs

  1. Fry the Meatballs:
    • Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Fry the stuffed meatballs in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch.
    • Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve the Turkish stuffed meatballs hot with a side of lemon wedges and a refreshing salad. Enjoy the crisp outer shell and the savory filling that makes these meatballs a beloved Turkish delicacy.
Turkish stuffed meatballs with a crispy bulgur shell and savory meat filling.

Tips and Tricks

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Fry them directly from frozen when ready to serve.
  • Variations: Experiment with different fillings such as ground chicken or add pine nuts for a unique twist.
  • Serving Ideas: Pair the meatballs with a yogurt sauce or a spicy tomato dip for added flavor.

Looking for more Turkish delights? Check out our Turkish Baklava Recipe

Learn more about bulgur and its nutritional benefits.

Discover the history of İçli Köfte.

Share the Love

If you enjoyed this Turkish stuffed meatballs recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family on social media! #TurkishStuffedMeatballs #İçliKöfte

By following this detailed guide, you’ll be able to create a truly authentic and delicious Turkish stuffed meatballs recipe that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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