Kafta bi Bandora
Flavorful ground meat patties (kafta), typically made with lamb or beef, simmered in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. A comforting and classic Palestinian dish often served with rice or bread.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground lamb or beef
- 1/2 medium Onion(finely grated)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(finely chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tsp Baharat (or 7-spice blend)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 4 medium Large ripe tomatoes(diced)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 cup Water or broth
- 1 small Cinnamon stick
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, baharat, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
💡 Tip: Avoid overmixing, which can make the kafta tough. - 2
Shape the mixture into small oval patties or meatballs.
- 3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the kafta. - 4
Sear the kafta patties on both sides until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- 5
In the same skillet, add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down.
- 6
Add the water or broth and the cinnamon stick to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. - 7
Return the seared kafta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the kafta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- 8
Remove the cinnamon stick before serving.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. - 9
Serve hot, typically with rice, vermicelli rice, or pita bread.
💡 Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer sauce, you can add a pinch of ground allspice or cumin.
- ✓If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more water or broth.
- ✓Kafta bi Bandora can be made a day in advance and reheated.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add sliced potatoes or peas to the sauce while simmering.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use a mix of lamb and beef for a more complex flavor.