Dry Meatballs (Kuru Köfte)

Dry meatball is basically a type of meatball fried in oil. It is quite common in Turkey because of its pleasant taste and simple recipe. One thing I can say is it can be a unique companion to go with fried potatoes, which I take as people all around the world love the same. I am not qualified enough with frying food yet, so I was glad when my mom decided to make it. Here is what may seem like a long list of ingredients. We occasionally omit black pepper and parsley, but it is delicious either way :)

Ingredients: 

1 lb ground meat 

2-3 slices of stale bread ground into crumbs

1 medium sized onion, grated

1 egg

1 tsp cumin 
½ tsp baking soda

5 springs of finely chopped parsley

1 tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp salt to taste

Instructions:

- In a large bowl, knead the ground meat, onion and bread crumbs thoroughly.
- Add all the remaining ingredients and keep kneading until fully blended.
- Taking walnut-size pieces, roll the meat into small balls and shape it, pressing lightly with your palms.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and deep-fry the meatballs on high heat until browned on each side.
- Drain the excess oil on a paper towel.
- Serve warm or cold.