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Authentic Koofteh Tabrizi served in rich tomato broth with fresh herbs

Authentic Koofteh Tabrizi Recipe

Learn how to make authentic Koofteh Tabrizi, traditional Persian stuffed meatballs made with ground beef, rice, split peas, fresh herbs, and a rich tomato broth. This hearty Iranian comfort food is perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 14 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Persian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb 500 g ground beef or lamb
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup cooked split peas
  • 1 large onion grated and drained
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1½ tsp salt
  • Traditional Filling
  • 3 hard-boiled eggs
  • ¼ cup walnut halves
  • 6 dried plums optional
  • ¼ cup fried onions optional
  • Tomato Broth
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 onions thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 5 cups beef broth or water
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Step 1
  2. Cook the rice and split peas until tender. Drain well and allow them to cool completely.
  3. Step 2
  4. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, split peas, grated onion, egg, parsley, cilantro, dill, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Knead the mixture for 5-8 minutes until well combined, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  5. Step 3
  6. Divide the mixture into six equal portions. Flatten each portion and place a boiled egg or half an egg, walnuts, dried plums, and fried onions in the center. Carefully seal and shape into large round meatballs.
  7. Step 4
  8. Heat the oil in a large pot. Sauté the sliced onions until golden, then stir in the tomato paste and turmeric. Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  9. Step 5
  10. Carefully place the meatballs into the simmering broth. Cook undisturbed for 15 minutes, then gently spoon the broth over the meatballs. Cover and simmer for 60-75 minutes until fully cooked.
  11. Step 6
  12. Serve hot with the flavorful tomato broth, fresh herbs, and warm Persian flatbread.