foodistanbul: Kofte (Meatball)

Köfte is a globe-trotting superstar of the culinary world, loved across the Middle East, the Balkans, and Central Asia! Think of it as the ultimate meatball with a passport, made from ground beef, lamb, or a tasty mix of both, then jazzed up with a special blend of spices. Whether shaped into juicy balls, hearty patties, or sizzling skewers, köfte is always ready to impress. Grilled, fried, or baked to perfection.

The real magic? The seasoning! Depending on where you are, you might find köfte infused with onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, pepper, and fresh herbs like mint or thyme. Some versions even sneak in rice or bulgur for an extra twist.

And let’s talk about serving styles. This dish loves a good pairing! Wrap it in pita, dip it in tahini, smother it in tomato sauce, or enjoy it alongside yogurt and fresh salad. No matter where you try it, köfte brings its A-game with delicious variety. One dish, endless possibilities. What’s not to love? 😋🔥

“Where can I find these delicious foods?”

European Side:

1. Özkan Köftecisi

Address: Rüstem Paşa, Uzun Çarşı Cd. No:215, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul

2. Tarihi Sultanahmet Köftecisi Selim Usta

Address: Alemdar, Divan Yolu Cd. No:12, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul

3. Şöhretler Beşiktaş Köftecisi

Address: Sinanpaşa, Şair Leyla Sk. 5 C, 34353 Beşiktaş/İstanbul

Asian Side:

1. Filizler Köftecisi

Address: Aziz Mahmut Hüdayi, Üsküdar Harem Sahil Yolu No:61, 34672 Üsküdar/İstanbul

2. Ako Ahmet Usta Islama Köftecisi

Address: Osmanağa, Yasa Cd. no:11, 34734 Kadıköy/İstanbul

3. Ankara Sereserpe Köftecisi

Address: Bostancı, Prof. Dr. Ali Nihat Tarlan Cd No:81, 34744 Kadıköy/İstanbul