Dinar Taptama Meatballs


Product Description and Distinguishing Features:

Dinar Taptama Köfte / Dinar Taplama Köfte is a type of meatball made from a mixture of half-fat minced beef, fine bulgur, onions, eggs, wheat flour, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper. These meatballs are typically prepared by frying them in hot oil or cooking them on a griddle over a wood fire. They can be enjoyed either hot or cold.

Dinar Taptama Meatballs

Dinar Taptama Köfte / Dinar Taplama Köfte has an oval shape, measuring approximately 8 cm in diameter and 1 cm in thickness. The name "Taptama / Taplama Köfte" is derived from the sound made when the meatball mixture is shaped by clapping the palms together.

A staple of Dinar's culinary culture, Dinar Taptama Köfte / Dinar Taplama Köfte holds deep historical significance and is particularly served during special occasions like births, condolences, weddings, military farewells, and circumcision ceremonies. As a result, it is strongly tied to a specific geographic region and has gained wide recognition.

Preparation:

The minced meat, flour, half of the bulgur, egg, red pepper flakes, black pepper, salt, and 200 ml of water are combined in a bowl. The mixture is kneaded for about 15 minutes until it becomes smooth and homogeneous. To prevent it from drying out during kneading, an additional 100-200 ml of water can be added. Then, the remaining bulgur, grated onion, and garlic are incorporated, and kneading continues for another 10 minutes. Careful kneading is essential to ensure the mixture holds together and does not break apart during frying or cooking. The kneading process is complete when the mixture changes color, no longer appears raw, and the bulgur expands and softens to a large, tender texture.

Approximately 60g portions are taken from the mixture, shaped into wide, oval forms using the palms, and then fried in oil. Once fried, the meatballs are placed on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Alternatively, they can be cooked on a griddle over a wood fire. Dinar Taptama Köfte / Dinar Taplama Köfte can be enjoyed either hot or cold.