Kufta bozbash

Kufta bozbash is a traditional meatball soup. The essence of this soup is in the flavor of the köfte (meatballs). Ground meat (usually lamb) is mixed with finely chopped onions, rice, dried mint, and dried lime flowers. When shaping the meatballs, dried fruits such as dates, cherries, or plums are placed and sealed inside them.

The köfte are cooked by themselves in a saffron-seasoned broth, followed by potatoes, chickpeas, tomatoes, and carrots. When served, the individual portion calls for only one large meatball per person, but nowadays, restaurants will make smaller meatballs for a more balanced dish.

Garnished with fresh mint or cilantro, the soup is typically served as the first course at lunchtime.