Here’s a delicious and spicy Turkish meatballs (Kofte) recipe paired with a refreshing salad:

Turkish Spicy Meatballs with Salad

Ingredients:

For Spicy Meatballs (Kofte):

• 500 grams ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

For Salad:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For Salad Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

For Spicy Meatballs (Köfte):

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
   • Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then shape the meat mixture into small, elongated meatballs (köfte).
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 10-12 minutes.

For Salad:

1. Prepare Salad Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, diced green bell pepper, and chopped fresh parsley.
2. Make Salad Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the Salad:
   • Pour the salad dressing over the vegetables and toss the salad until well coated.

Assemble and Serve:

1. Serve Hot Köfte:
   • Arrange the hot spicy meatballs on a serving platter.
2. Side with Salad:
   • Serve the spicy meatballs alongside the refreshing salad.
3. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Garnish the meatballs with additional chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This Turkish Spicy Meatballs with Salad is a delightful combination of bold flavors and freshness. You can also serve it with flatbread or rice if desired. Enjoy your delicious Turkish meal!