Photo from mediterraneanlatinloveaffair.com

Qofte are delicious Albanian meatballs, known for their juicy texture and rich Mediterranean spices. These flavorful bites can be grilled, fried, or baked, making them a versatile dish for any meal. Qofte are often served with yogurt, salad, or fresh bread, making them a staple in Albanian cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup (30g) breadcrumbs

1 egg

1/4 cup (15g) chopped parsley

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp cumin

1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil

For Frying (Optional):

3 tbsp (45ml) vegetable oil

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Mixture In a bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, and spices. Add chopped parsley and mix well until everything is evenly combined. Cover and let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Shape the Qofte Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into oval or round meatballs.

Cook the Qofte

For Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the meatballs until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. For Grilling: Brush the qofte with olive oil and grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side. For Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Serving Qofte are best served hot, with yogurt sauce, fresh salad, pita bread, or rice. They also pair well with ajvar or tzatziki for extra flavor.

This authentic Albanian recipe brings together aromatic spices and juicy meat, making Qofte a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether fried, grilled, or baked, these meatballs will impress with their bold Mediterranean taste.