How to Make Algerian Kefta (Meatballs) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Algerian cuisine is known for its flavorful and aromatic dishes that are rich in spices and seasonings. One popular dish that is beloved by many Algerians is Kefta, which are flavorful meatballs made with ground meat and a blend of traditional North African spices.

Kefta is a versatile dish that can be made using a variety of meats, such as lamb, beef, or even a combination of the two. The meat is typically seasoned with a mixture of spices that may include cumin, paprika, cinnamon, an...

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
  • ¼ cup finely chopped onion, divided
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon ras el hanout (Optional)
  • ½ cup water

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Servings: 3
  • Yield: 12 patties

  • Combine the ground beef with half of the minced garlic and a tablespoon of chopped onion. Mix with your hands until fully incorporated. Shape the meat mixture into 1 1/2-inch oblong patties; you should have 12 to 14 meatballs.
  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the patties in batches until they are crispy on both sides and are no longer pink in the center, about 10 minutes. Set the meatballs aside in a rimmed serving dish and repeat with the remaining patties.
  • Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the remaining chopped onion. Add salt and pepper. Cook the onions in the drippings, stirring constantly, until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the remaining half of the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Stir in the roma tomatoes, dried parsley, ras el hanout, and water. Cook until the tomatoes are soft, about 5 minutes. Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs and serve.
  • Nutrition

    424 cal.

    • Total Fat: 32g
    • Saturated Fat: 13g
    • Cholesterol: 114mg
    • Sodium: 111mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 5g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 2g
    • Protein: 28g
    • Vitamin C: 10mg
    • Calcium: 34mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 590mg