Introduction
Kofta with Tahini is one of the most popular Middle Eastern dishes served across the Levant, Palestine, and Jordan. This dish brings together the rich flavor and tenderness of seasoned meat with creamy tahini sauce, which transforms into a smooth, velvety topping that seeps into the kofta, creating an authentic Eastern meal that balances simplicity and indulgence.
Kofta with tahini does not require advanced cooking skills. It is easy and quick to prepare, yet it delivers a luxurious taste thanks to its traditional ingredients and time-honored method passed down through generations.
First: What Makes Kofta with Tahini Stand Out?
1) Creamy Tahini Sauce
Tahini is the key ingredient that gives this dish its rich and distinctive flavor, especially when combined with lemon, garlic, and spices.
2) Authentic Eastern Spices
Kofta relies on a blend of spices such as:
- Black pepper
- Cumin
- Cinnamon
- Mixed spices
These spices give the meat a complete Arabic aroma and flavor.
3) Oven-Baked Cooking Method
The kofta is fully cooked in the oven, making it:
- Healthier
- Easy to cook evenly
- Firm in texture with a deep flavor
4) Versatile Serving Options
It can be served with:
- Rice with vermicelli
- Green salad
- Oven-roasted potatoes
- Arabic bread
This makes it suitable for both lunch and dinner.
Second: Ingredients for Kofta with Tahini
Kofta Ingredients:
- 500 g ground meat
- 1 finely chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
- A pinch of cinnamon
- A pinch of cumin
- A pinch of mixed spices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Tahini Sauce Ingredients:
- ½ cup tahini
- 1 cup warm water
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of cumin
- 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses (optional)
Third: Step-by-Step Preparation of Kofta with Tahini
1) Preparing the Kofta Mixture
- Mix the ground meat with onion and parsley.
- Add spices and salt, then knead well until fully combined.
- Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes.
2) Shaping the Kofta
- Spread the kofta mixture evenly in a baking tray.
- Shape into logs or patties, as desired.
- Drizzle lightly with oil to prevent drying during baking.
3) Baking the Kofta
- Place the tray in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 15 minutes until the kofta sets.
4) Preparing the Tahini Sauce
- Gradually mix tahini with warm water until smooth.
- Add lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt.
- The sauce should be medium in consistency—not too thick or too thin.
5) Combining the Tahini with the Kofta
- Remove the kofta from the oven and pour the tahini sauce evenly over it.
- Return to the oven for 10–15 minutes until the sauce gently bubbles and thickens.
6) Serving
- Serve the kofta hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
- It can be served alongside rice or Arabic bread.
Fourth: Secrets to Perfect Kofta with Tahini
✔ Use ground meat with moderate fat content
Very lean meat makes the kofta dry, while high fat makes it overly greasy.
✔ Knead the kofta well
Proper kneading helps it hold together during baking.
✔ Lightly bake before adding tahini
This helps set the kofta and prevents it from falling apart.
✔ Adjust the tahini consistency carefully
It should be medium-thick to cook evenly without separating.
✔ Add pomegranate molasses for extra flavor
For those who enjoy a bold sweet-and-tangy taste.
Fifth: Nutritional Value of Kofta with Tahini
1) High-Quality Protein
From meat, making it a filling and nourishing meal.
2) Healthy Fats
From olive oil and tahini made from sesame seeds.
3) Vitamins and Minerals
From parsley and garlic, adding nutritional benefits.
4) Suitable for Diet Plans When Prepared with Minimal Oil
As it is baked, not fried.
5) Low in Carbohydrates
Making it suitable for low-carb diets.
Conclusion
Kofta with Tahini is an authentic Middle Eastern dish that combines rich flavor with ease of preparation, offering a satisfying and beloved meal in many Arab households.
With its simple ingredients and quick preparation method, it has become a popular choice for family meals and gatherings.
By following the steps above, you can prepare kofta with tahini that delivers a distinctive flavor comparable to that of well-known Middle Eastern restaurants.
