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Authentic Koofteh Tabrizi served in rich tomato broth with fresh herbs

Authentic Koofteh Tabrizi Recipe

2 from 1 vote
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.