Izmir Kofte Casserole
Izmir Kofte is a traditional Turkish dish known for its aromatic blend of spices and flavors. Originating from the coastal city of Izmir, this dish has evolved over time, embodying the rich culinary history of the region. An iconic part of Turkish cuisine, Izmir Kofte stands out due to its unique blend of lamb mince, spices, and vegetables, meticulously baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- Lamb mince - 500g
- Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
- Parsley - 1/4 cup, finely chopped
- Bread crumbs - 1/2 cup
- Egg - 1
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon
- Paprika - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Potato - 2 large, sliced
- Green pepper - 2, sliced
- Tomato - 3, sliced
- Tomato paste - 2 tablespoons
- Water - 1 cup
Preparation
Step 1: Making the Kofte Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the lamb mince, onion, parsley, bread crumbs, egg, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure they are well combined to form a smooth mixture. Shape the mixture into small oval-shaped kofte.
Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables and Sauce
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the potato slices until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels. In the same oil, fry the green pepper slices until tender. Set aside. In a small bowl, combine the tomato paste with water and mix well.
Step 3: Assembling the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, layer the fried potato slices at the bottom, followed by the kofte. Top with fried green pepper and tomato slices. Pour the tomato paste mixture over the dish. Cover with foil.
Cooking
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes. Check using a cooking timer. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly. Ensure the meat is cooked through and the flavors melded together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Izmir Kofte Casserole can be served hot as a main dish. It pairs wonderfully with a side of freshly baked bread or a crisp salad. Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh finish.