Introduction
Kefta with tomatoes and potatoes is a traditional dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, especially popular in Jordan. It offers a perfect balance of seasoned meat, juicy tomatoes, and tender potatoes, baked to perfection. This hearty meal is both flavorful and nutritious, making it a great option for family dinners. Kefta, which refers to minced meat mixed with spices, is versatile and can be served in various ways. This version combines the richness of kefta with the earthy taste of potatoes and the sweetness of tomatoes, making it a delicious and satisfying dish.
Time
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Needed Equipment
- Baking tray
- Frying pan
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Aluminum foil
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Tags
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Course: Main dish
- Dietary Preference: Non-vegetarian, Halal
- Difficulty Level: Medium
- Meal Type: Dinner, Lunch
- Special Feature: Oven-baked, Gluten-free (if served without bread)
Serving Size
- Serves: 5 people
Difficulty Level
- Medium
Allergen Information
- Contains: None (if made without any cross-contamination)
- Free from: Gluten, Dairy, Eggs, Nuts (if cooked without bread or any dairy-based sides)
Dietary Preference
- Non-Vegetarian
- Halal
Course
- Main Course
Cuisine
- Middle Eastern
Ingredients (in Tables)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Minced beef (or lamb) | 500g (1/2 kg) |
| Potatoes | 3 medium-sized |
| Tomatoes | 3 medium-sized |
| Onion | 1 large |
| Green chili pepper | 1 |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Kefta spice mix | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground ginger | A pinch |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 1 cup |
Instructions
- Prepare the Kefta:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced beef (or lamb) with salt, ground cinnamon, kefta spice mix, black pepper, and a pinch of ginger.
- Mix well and shape the meat into finger-sized kebabs.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Slice the onion into thin strips (julienne).
- Slice the tomatoes and potatoes into thin circles.
- Cut the green chili pepper in half.
- Cooking the Kefta:
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Place the kefta kebabs in the pan and brown them on both sides until the color changes, but do not cook them through completely.
- Set the kefta aside.
- Assemble the Dish:
- In the same pan, add the sliced onions and green chili. Sauté for a few minutes until softened.
- Arrange the potatoes on the bottom of a baking tray.
- Layer the kefta kebabs on top of the potatoes.
- Add 1 cup of water to the tray and cover it with aluminum foil.
- Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake the kefta and potatoes for 20 minutes.
- Remove the tray from the oven and add the tomato slices on top.
- Sprinkle a little salt and black pepper on the tomatoes, then return the tray to the oven (without the foil) for another 10 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
- Final Steps:
- Uncover the tray and place it under the broiler for 5-10 minutes to brown the top and crisp the potatoes.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serving:
- Serve the kefta with tomatoes and potatoes alongside rice or bread for a complete meal.
Preparation Tips
- Kefta Meat: For added flavor, mix in chopped parsley or cilantro into the kefta before forming the kebabs.
- Vegetable Cutting: Make sure the potato slices are thin to ensure they cook evenly with the meat and tomatoes.
- Adjusting Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the kefta to your taste, adding more cinnamon, black pepper, or even cumin.
Nutritional Information (in Tables)
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
Tips and Tricks
- Adding More Vegetables: You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant slices to the dish for more variety.
- Healthier Option: To reduce the fat content, you can bake the kefta directly in the oven without frying them first.
- Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of sumac or fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving for a tangy kick.
Add-ons
- Extra Spice: Serve the dish with a side of harissa or chili sauce for those who enjoy extra heat.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro to enhance the dish’s presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
- Rice: Serve with a side of seasoned rice, such as turmeric or saffron rice, for a complete meal.
- Flatbread: Fresh pita bread or any type of Middle Eastern bread pairs well with this dish.
Improvements
- More Texture: If you prefer more texture, consider grilling the kefta and potatoes separately to get a crispy exterior before assembling them in the tray with the tomatoes.
- Tomato Sauce: For a saucier dish, add tomato paste and water to the tray when you first place the kefta and potatoes in the oven.
Save and Store
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked kefta and potatoes for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through before serving.
FAQ
- Can I use lamb instead of beef?
- Yes, lamb is a traditional meat used in kefta, and it adds a richer flavor to the dish.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- You can replace the kefta with vegetable patties or falafel for a vegetarian version.
- What can I serve with this dish?
- This dish goes well with rice, salad, and Middle Eastern bread.
- Can I use sweet potatoes?
- Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor profile, adding sweetness to balance the savory kefta.
Conclusion
Kefta with tomatoes and potatoes is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. It is a dish deeply rooted in Middle Eastern tradition but easily adaptable to suit different tastes. The combination of spiced kefta, tender potatoes, and juicy tomatoes baked to perfection creates a meal that is both comforting and delicious. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish will surely impress.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of the Middle East with this classic kefta recipe, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own.
