Kafta Harra: A Spicy and Flavorful Lebanese Delight

Kafta Harra, also known as "spicy meatballs," is a vibrant and aromatic Lebanese dish that combines seasoned meatballs with a tantalizing tomato and chili sauce. This dish is celebrated for its bold flavors and can be enjoyed as a main course or served as part of a mezze spread. Let's uncover the history, ingredients, and preparation of Kafta Harra.

Historical Context of Kafta Harra

Kafta Harra originates from Lebanese cuisine, which is renowned for its use of fresh herbs, spices, and bold flavors. The dish likely evolved from traditional meatball recipes, with the addition of spicy tomato-based sauces common in Middle Eastern cooking. Kafta Harra showcases the Levantine region's culinary heritage, emphasizing the importance of vibrant ingredients and skillful seasoning.

Over time, Kafta Harra has become a popular dish both in Lebanon and among Lebanese communities worldwide, cherished for its ability to awaken the taste buds with its spicy and savory profile.

Key Ingredients in Kafta Harra

1. Ground Meat:

Kafta Harra is typically made with a mixture of ground lamb and beef, which contributes richness and depth of flavor to the meatballs.

2. Fresh Herbs:

Chopped parsley and cilantro are essential herbs used in Kafta Harra, providing freshness and a vibrant green color to the meat mixture.

3. Spices:

The meatballs are seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and chili flakes, adding warmth and complexity to the dish.

4. Tomatoes:

Ripe tomatoes are used to create the flavorful tomato sauce that accompanies the meatballs in Kafta Harra.

5. Chili Peppers:

Fresh green or red chili peppers are a key component of Kafta Harra, lending spiciness to the dish. The heat level can be adjusted according to preference.

6. Garlic:

Minced garlic adds aromatic flavor to both the meatballs and the tomato sauce.

7. Olive Oil:

High-quality extra virgin olive oil is used for cooking the meatballs and sautéing the tomatoes and chili peppers.

Traditional Kafta Harra Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

500g ground lamb

500g ground beef

1 small onion, finely grated or minced

1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Salt and pepper, to taste

Olive oil, for cooking

For the Tomato and Chili Sauce:

4 ripe tomatoes, diced

2-3 fresh chili peppers (green or red), thinly sliced (adjust quantity based on desired spice level)

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Extra virgin olive oil, for sautéing

Instructions:

Prepare the Meatball Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, ground beef, grated/minced onion, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly using your hands, ensuring that the spices and herbs are evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into small meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the cooked meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Tomato and Chili Sauce:

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed.

Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the diced tomatoes and sliced chili peppers.

Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.

Stir in the tomato paste and chili flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer and Serve:

Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato and chili sauce.

Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish Kafta Harra with additional chopped parsley and cilantro.

Serve hot as a main dish with rice or flatbread, or as part of a mezze spread alongside other Lebanese dishes.

Conclusion

Kafta Harra is a testament to the bold and vibrant flavors of Lebanese cuisine, combining aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and tender meatballs in a spicy tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and crave the robust flavors of Middle Eastern cooking.

Prepare and savor Kafta Harra to experience a taste of Lebanon's culinary heritage and indulge in the savory delights of this classic Lebanese dish.

Keywords and Hashtags

Keywords: Kafta Harra recipe, Lebanese meatballs, spicy meatball dish, Lebanese cuisine, Middle Eastern cooking, ground lamb and beef.

Hashtags: #KaftaHarra #LebaneseFood #SpicyMeatballs #MiddleEasternCuisine #TraditionalRecipes #CulinaryHeritage