Koftas, Beef Meatballs in Tomato Sauce with Grilled Peppers

Description

Our grilled pepper and tomato keftas are a savory take on a Moroccan classic. Traditionally hand-crafted, delicately spiced beef meatballs are simmered in a smooth, lightly spiced tomato sauce. The grilled peppers, with their delicately charred skin and tender flesh, add a smoky sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture that contrasts perfectly with the meat. The rich, fragrant sauce absorbs the meat juices and pepper aromas to create a smooth jus with both sweet and spicy notes. This comforting dish represents the perfect balance of simplicity and rich flavor, characteristic of Moroccan home cooking: generous, flavorful, and subtly spiced, it offers an authentic experience reminiscent of the cozy tables of Morocco.

Ingredients

• Selected ground beef
• Fresh ripe tomatoes
• Grilled peppers (red and green)
• Onions
• Fresh garlic
  
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Sweet pepper
• Ground coriander
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh coriander

Preparation

These keftas are prepared using the traditional Moroccan method. The beef is first finely ground and then mixed with carefully measured spices, chopped fresh herbs, and a touch of breadcrumbs to ensure a perfect texture. Each meatball is carefully shaped by hand. The peppers are grilled until their skin blackens, then delicately peeled to reveal their tender flesh. Meanwhile, a tomato sauce is prepared from fresh tomatoes, melted onions, and garlic, flavored with mild spices. The keftas are first lightly seared to seal in their flavors, then slowly simmered in the tomato sauce, to which the grilled peppers are added. This gentle cooking time, lasting approximately 40 minutes, allows the meatballs to remain juicy while absorbing the flavors of the sauce, creating a perfect harmony between all the ingredients.

Nutritional Values ​​(per 400g serving)

• Energy: 420 kcal
• Protein: 33g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• of which Sugars: 9g
• Lipids: 25g
• of which saturated fatty acids: 7g
• Dietary fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 640mg

Conservation and Use

Store in the refrigerator between 0°C and 4°C. Consume within 3 days of production and within 24 hours of opening. To reheat, pour into a saucepan and heat over low heat for 6-8 minutes, stirring gently to avoid breaking the balls, or in a preheated oven at 150°C for 15 minutes. Can be frozen on the day of purchase for extended storage of up to 2 months.

Tasting Tips

These keftas are ideally enjoyed with traditional bread to savor their delicious tomato sauce, or served on a bed of fine semolina or white rice to absorb the flavors. For an authentic experience, garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro and a drizzle of quality olive oil. This dish is particularly popular for convivial meals, where it can be placed in the center of the table in a large, deep dish. For a complete experience, accompany it with a fresh salad and marinated olives, which will add a tangy note that contrasts pleasantly with the richness of the keftas.

Allergens

Contains eggs and gluten (breadcrumbs). Prepared in a certified Lamehadrin Kosher kitchen where no dairy products are used.

Origin

This recipe is deeply rooted in Moroccan culinary tradition, where keftas are an iconic dish found on both family and festive tables. The combination with tomato sauce and grilled peppers is particularly popular in the central and northern regions of Morocco. In Judeo-Moroccan cuisine, this dish was often prepared for weekend meals and family occasions, symbolizing generosity and sharing. Its popularity extends throughout the Mediterranean basin, reflecting the intersecting culinary influences that characterize this region of the world.