Kofta with potatoes combines protein, vegetables and sauce in one tray, but their different cooking times can leave one component dry. Slice potatoes thinly or partly cook them first, then add evenly shaped kofta and a moderate amount of sauce.
Ingredients for four
- 600 g plain beef or lamb mince.
- One small grated, drained onion and two tablespoons parsley.
- 500 g potatoes, evenly sliced.
- 400 g crushed tomatoes and one tablespoon tomato paste.
- Two garlic cloves, one tablespoon oil, and moderate salt, pepper and mixed spices.
- Half a cup of hot water initially, adding only what the tray needs.
Allow about 25 minutes for preparation and usually 30–45 minutes for cooking, depending on potato and kofta thickness and the oven. Check actual doneness rather than following the clock when slices are thicker or the tray deeper.
Preparation sequence
Parboil potatoes until beginning to soften without falling apart, then drain. Mix mince with onion, parsley and spices and form similar fingers or patties. Cook a small piece to check salt and firmness before shaping the rest.
Warm oil and garlic in a small saucepan, add tomatoes and paste, and reduce slightly. Do not automatically add all the water: tomatoes and meat release moisture. A fairly concentrated sauce works better than submerging the ingredients.
Baking
Arrange potatoes and kofta in an evenly thick layer, distributing sauce between them. Bake in a preheated 200°C oven, covering initially if the potatoes need more time. Uncover toward the end to reduce moisture and brown the top. Check that the largest kofta reaches 71°C at its centre.
If kofta browns before potatoes soften, lower the heat and cover instead of continuing intense browning. If the sauce remains thin after cooking, reduce it separately or briefly bake uncovered while watching that the meat does not dry.
Can burger patties replace kofta?
Meat patties can be tray-baked, but their seasoning, ingredients and texture may differ. For this recipe, use mince with known ingredients or suitable prepared kofta, adjusting onion and salt.
Related products from ALRAQI MEATS
Beef Mince - 1 kg, or Local Naimi Lamb Mince - 1 kg. Check the product page for weight, ingredients and cutting options before ordering. Choose a cut suited to the cooking method; a boneless or mixed-meat label alone does not guarantee suitability for quick cooking.
Further guidance
Safe minimum cooking temperatures, Refrigerated food storage.