Turkish Spicy Meatballs (Kofta)

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 pound)
• Onion (1 medium, finely chopped)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Bread crumbs (1/2 cup)
• Egg (1, beaten)
• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Cumin (1 teaspoon)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon (or to taste))
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Tomato sauce (1 cup)
• Water (1/2 cup)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, bread crumbs, beaten egg, chopped parsley, cumin, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This helps them cook evenly and makes for a perfect bite.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce and water until well combined. Pour this mixture over the browned meatballs in the skillet.
5. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Serve the Turkish spicy meatballs hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired, alongside rice or warm bread for a complete meal.