World Flavors Cookbook

Kyufta (Armenian Meatballs)

Silky, airy balls of finely beaten meat, traditionally served with a knob of butter and a squeeze of lemon.

Cuisine: Armenia

Ingredients

• 1 kg very lean beef, ground and beaten to a paste
• 1 cup onion, finely grated
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 cup Cognac or water
• Butter for serving

Instructions

1. 1. Traditionally, the meat is beaten on a stone with a wooden mallet until it reaches a pate-like consistency. Modernly, use a food processor. 2. Mix meat with onion, salt, pepper, allspice, and liquid. Beat until airy. 3. Form large, smooth balls. 4. Drop into a pot of simmering salted water. 5. Boil for 25-30 minutes until they float. 6. Serve sliced with a generous dollop of butter on top.