Spiced Rice and Kofta Meatballs
45 Minutes
Middle East/Mediterranean
Serves: 4-5
Inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, this dish combines tender, spiced kofta meatballs with perfectly seasoned Royal Basmati Rice. Fragrant with cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon, the rice is tossed with shredded carrots, plump raisins, and fresh herbs for color and texture. Served together, it’s a wholesome, aromatic meal that’s as comforting as it is elegant — made even better with the authentic taste and fluffy texture of Royal Basmati Rice.
Ingredients
SPICED RICE
- 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon: salt, paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon: cumin, cardamom, turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups Royal Basmati Rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup fresh herbs: cilantro, parsley, mint
KOFTA MEATBALLS
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup cilantro
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 teaspoon sumac
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- olive oil, for cooking
Preparation
- For the rice, add the broth, garlic, sugar, and all the spices to a pot over medium heat. bring to a boil then add the rice. turn the heat to low, place the lid on top, and cook for 15 minutes, until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy. fluff the rice then add the shredded carrots on top and place the lid on top (the heat from the rice will steam the carrots).
- Place the raisins in a bowl and pour hot water over them. let them soak for 5 minutes then drain thoroughly.
- To make the meatballs, place all the ingredients (other than the olive oil) in a bowl. mix until combine (but don’t overtax or the meat will be tough!). shape into 12 meatballs, about 2 tablespoons each.
- Add a tablespoon or two of olive oil to a large pan over medium heat. once hot, add the meatballs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until each side is deeply brown.
- To assemble, transfer the rice to a large plate. top with raisins, meatballs, and fresh herbs. enjoy!
