Name: Izmir Kofte
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 3 large potatoes; 4 green peppers; 2 tomatoes; 500 g ground beef (medium-fat); 1 onion, grated; 3 tbsp breadcrumbs or stale bread; 1 egg; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Dried thyme, to taste; 2 tsp cumin; Sunflower oil (for frying); 2 tbsp sunflower oil (for sauce); 3 garlic cloves; 1 tsp tomato paste; 2 tomatoes, finely chopped; 2 cups hot water; Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Izmir Kofte is one of the most beloved baked dishes in Turkish cuisine. A hearty combination of potatoes, meatballs, tomatoes, and peppers comes together in a rich tomato sauce, making it both comforting and flavorful. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is as delicious as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Traditional flavor: A true Turkish classic.
Filling: With both potatoes and meatballs, it stands alone as a main dish.
Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and is easy to prepare.
Oven-baked: Healthier and lighter compared to fried dishes.
Great for entertaining: Elegant presentation with flavors that please everyone.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 large potatoes
4 green peppers
2 tomatoes

For the meatballs:
500 g ground beef (medium-fat)
1 onion, grated
3 tbsp breadcrumbs or stale bread
1 egg
Salt
Black pepper
Dried thyme
2 tsp cumin

For frying:
Sunflower oil

For the sauce:
2 tbsp sunflower oil
3 garlic cloves
1 tsp tomato paste
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
2 cups hot water
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Slice the potatoes into wedges. Heat sunflower oil in a pan and fry the potatoes until lightly golden. Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
For the meatballs, mix the ground beef, grated onion, breadcrumbs, egg, and spices in a bowl. Shape into oval patties. Lightly fry in oil until browned, then drain on paper towels.
For the sauce, heat sunflower oil in a saucepan. Add garlic and sauté, then stir in tomato paste. Add chopped tomatoes, hot water, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
In a baking dish, arrange the meatballs and potato wedges alternately. Tuck in sliced tomatoes and garlic between them. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the dish. Place halved green peppers on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 20 minutes until everything is cooked through and flavors combine.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Eggplant version: Add fried eggplant slices alongside the potatoes.
Spicy: Add chili flakes or paprika to the meat mixture or sauce.
Lighter version: Bake the meatballs and potatoes instead of frying.
Richer sauce: Use both tomato and pepper paste for deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes. It can also be microwaved, but the oven preserves texture better.
For freezing, let the dish cool completely, portion it, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Izmir Kofte ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs, potatoes, and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake before serving.

Can I bake the potatoes instead of frying?

Yes, baking with a little oil makes the dish lighter.

What kind of meat is best?

Ground beef is traditional, but a beef-lamb mix works well for richer flavor.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge.

How can I make it less oily?

Bake the potatoes and meatballs instead of frying.

What side dishes go well with Izmir Kofte?

It pairs beautifully with rice pilaf, bulgur pilaf, cacık (yogurt with cucumber), or a fresh salad.

How many people does it serve?

This recipe makes 4–6 servings, depending on portion size.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, thaw them first, then cook as directed.

How do I make the meatballs softer?

Add some grated potato or bread soaked in milk to the mixture.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Increase the tomato paste or cook it down longer for a thicker consistency.

Conclusion

Izmir Kofte is a timeless Turkish dish that brings together meatballs, potatoes, peppers, and tomatoes in a savory sauce. With its comforting flavors, hearty texture, and simple preparation, it’s perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. Whether you serve it with rice, bread, or a fresh salad, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table