Turkish Kofta with Creamy Hummus and Toasted Pine Nuts is a savory and aromatic Middle Eastern-inspired dish that brings together spiced meatballs, smooth hummus, and crunchy pine nuts. It’s a perfect dish for sharing, offering a burst of flavors and textures that are both comforting and exotic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the rich, spiced flavors of Turkish kofta with the creaminess of hummus and the crunch of toasted pine nuts, creating a truly delightful eating experience. The kofta is made with a blend of aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon, making it both flavorful and fragrant. The hummus base adds smoothness and richness, while the pine nuts and fresh mint garnish elevate the dish with texture and freshness. It’s a well-balanced, satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a special treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Olive oil for drizzling

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
2. Form the meat mixture into small, round meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
4. While the koftas are cooking, toast the pine nuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. To assemble the dish, spread a generous layer of hummus on a large plate or shallow dish. Arrange the cooked koftas on top of the hummus.
6. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts over the koftas and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of paprika or sumac, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Different Meat Options: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the ground beef or lamb with ground chicken or turkey.
• Make it Vegan: Replace the meatballs with plant-based protein alternatives like lentils or chickpeas, spiced similarly to kofta, and pair with vegan hummus.
• Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or a dash of harissa to the kofta mixture for an extra kick of heat.
• Herb Alternatives: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of mint for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the koftas in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to maintain their texture. The hummus should be served fresh, but can be stored separately for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I make the kofta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Form the meatballs and cook them just before serving.

What other nuts can I use instead of pine nuts?

If you don’t have pine nuts, you can substitute them with toasted almonds, walnuts, or even pistachios for a different crunch.

Can I use store-bought hummus?

Yes, store-bought hummus works perfectly well for this recipe. Just make sure it’s a high-quality brand for the best taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds.

Can I bake the kofta instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the kofta in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked. This method reduces the amount of oil used.

Can I freeze the kofta?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked kofta meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to an airtight container. Cook them directly from the freezer when needed.

How can I adjust the seasoning in this dish?

Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. You can increase the cumin or paprika for more depth or add chili powder for a spicier version.

Can I add vegetables to the kofta mixture?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added to the kofta mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with this dish?

Turkish kofta with hummus pairs well with warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or some roasted vegetables. It also complements couscous or rice nicely.

Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

To make this dish more suitable for a low-carb diet, serve the kofta over a bed of leafy greens or cauliflower rice instead of traditional hummus.

Conclusion

Turkish Kofta with Creamy Hummus and Toasted Pine Nuts is a flavorful and satisfying dish that blends the rich spiced meatballs with the smooth creaminess of hummus and the crunch of pine nuts. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Perfect for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress your guests and leave everyone coming back for more.

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