Grilled Köfte

Preparation

1. 01

   Preparation

   Grate the onion on a fine grater and squeeze out the excess water with your hands. Soak the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of water until softened.

2. 02

   Combine

   In a large mixing bowl, add the minced beef, grated onion, soaked breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, cumin, black pepper, chilli flakes, salt and bicarbonate of soda.

3. 03

   Kneading

   Knead all the ingredients thoroughly by hand for 8–10 minutes. The mixture should reach a uniform consistency and not stick to your hands.

4. 04

   Resting

   Cover the kneaded mixture with cling film and leave to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

5. 05

   Shaping

   Remove the rested mixture from the refrigerator. Lightly wet your hands, take walnut-sized portions and shape them into oval cylinders in your palms. You should get approximately 12–14 köfte.

6. 06

   Grilling

   Heat the grill rack or cast-iron pan over a high heat until very hot. Place the köfte on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, turning frequently, for a total of 8–10 minutes, until the outside is golden brown.

7. 07

   serving

   Serve the köfte hot with charred tomatoes, peppers and lavash bread.