Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatballs and slice the potatoes a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Prepare the tahini sauce just before baking.
DINNER
Jordanian Kofta bi Tahini with Potatoes
Experience the rich flavors of Jordan with this comforting dish featuring tender meatballs baked in a creamy tahini sauce, perfectly complemented by soft potatoes. This family-friendly recipe brings a taste of the Middle East to your dinner table.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well until just combined, then form into 1-inch meatballs.
02
Arrange the sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place the meatballs evenly over the potatoes.
03
In a separate bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, remaining 1 minced garlic clove, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 cup of water until smooth. The sauce should be pourable but not too thin.
04
Pour the tahini sauce evenly over the meatballs and potatoes in the baking dish. Ensure the potatoes are mostly submerged in the sauce.
05
Bake at 400°F/200°C for 45 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The sauce should be bubbly and slightly thickened.
06
Garnish with the remaining 1/4 cup of fresh parsley before serving.
About This Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Jordan with this comforting dish featuring tender meatballs baked in a creamy tahini sauce, perfectly complemented by soft potatoes. This family-friendly recipe brings a taste of the Middle East to your dinner table.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flavor, you can lightly brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the baking dish. Adjust the amount of lemon juice in the tahini sauce to your preference for tanginess. If the sauce appears too thick, add a tablespoon or two more water until desired consistency is reached.
Easy Substitutions
Ground lamb can be used instead of ground beef for a richer flavor. Sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes for a different sweetness. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based ground meat substitute and vegetable broth instead of water.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jordanian Kofta bi Tahini with warm pita bread for dipping, a side of fluffy white rice, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. A sprinkle of sumac or a drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the flavors.
Common Mistakes
Overmixing the meatball mixture can lead to tough meatballs; mix just until combined. Not stirring the tahini well before measuring can result in a sauce that separates or is too thick. Overcooking the meatballs can dry them out; ensure they are cooked through but still moist. Not slicing potatoes thinly enough can result in uneven cooking; aim for 1/4-inch rounds for optimal tenderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my tahini sauce is too thick or too thin?
If too thick, gradually add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a pourable consistency. If too thin, you can try adding a little more tahini, or let it reduce slightly in the oven during baking.
Can I freeze this recipe?
While you can freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce, the potatoes might become a bit mushy upon reheating. It's best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a good tahini sauce is proper emulsification. When mixing tahini with water and lemon juice, it might seize up initially. Keep whisking, and it will eventually smooth out into a creamy sauce. The amount of water needed can vary slightly depending on the tahini's consistency, so adjust as necessary to achieve a pourable but not watery texture. This dish is a staple in Jordanian cuisine, offering a unique blend of savory and tangy notes.
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