Sulu Köfte (Turkish Meatball Stew)

• Potato2 medium potatoes
• Carrot2 medium carrots
• Salt1 tsp salt
• Onion2 medium onions
• Egg1 large egg
• Flour2 tbsp flour
• Tomato2 tbsp tomato paste
• Beef500g ground beef
• Broth1 litre beef broth
• Mint1 tsp dried mint
• Rice50g rice
• Oil2 tbsp olive oil
• Pepper½ tsp black pepper

How to Make It

• 1

  In a large bowl, combine 500g ground beef, 1/4 cup washed short-grain rice, 1 finely grated medium onion, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Knead the mixture for 5-7 minutes until well combined and slightly sticky; this ensures your meatballs will hold their shape beautifully during cooking.

• 2

  Roll small portions of the meat mixture into marble-sized balls, about 1-1.5 cm in diameter. Lightly dust these meatballs with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, gently shaking off any excess. This dusting helps them brown evenly and prevents them from sticking together.

• 3

  In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and softened, releasing its sweet aroma, forming a fragrant base for your stew.

• 4

  Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, pressing it against the bottom of the pot to deepen its flavor and color. Then, add 2 peeled and diced potatoes (cut into 2 cm cubes) and 2 peeled and sliced carrots, sautéing for another 5 minutes to slightly tenderize them.

• 5

  Pour in 1 litre of hot beef broth, bringing it to a gentle boil. Carefully add the floured meatballs, stirring gently to prevent them from breaking apart. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

• 6

  Season the stew with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Just before serving, stir in 1 teaspoon of dried mint, allowing its refreshing aroma to infuse the stew. Serve hot, perhaps with a dollop of creamy yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.