Algerian Kefta (Meatballs)

Authentic Algerian Algerian Kefta (Meatballs) — a delicious beef dish with 8 ingredients. Follow our detailed step-by-step instructions for the perfect result.

Medium
Updated March 14, 2026

15

Prep Time (min)

30

Cook Time (min)

4

servings

450

Calories/serving

Medium

Difficulty

Algerian Kefta (Meatballs)

Ingredients

Servings:
4
  • 1 lb Ground Beef
  • 4 Cloves Crushed Garlic
  • 1 cup Onion
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Pepper
  • 3 Plum Tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Parsley
  • 1 cup Water

Instructions

4 steps · ~20 minutes total

  1. Step 1

    Combine ground beef with 1/2 of the minced garlic and 1 tablespoon chopped onion in a large bowl. Mix with your hands until fully incorporated. Shape meat mixture into 1 1/2-inch oblong patties; you should have 12 to 14 meatballs.

    5 minutes
    Keep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.
  2. Step 2

    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown patties in batches in the hot skillet until crispy on both sides and no longer pink in the center, about 10 minutes. Set meatballs aside in a rimmed serving dish.

    5 minutes
    Don't overcrowd the pan — cook in batches for a better sear.
  3. Step 3

    Reduce heat to medium and stir remaining chopped onion into drippings in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in remaining garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in Roma tomatoes, dried parsley, and ras el hanout. Pour in water. Cook until tomatoes are soft, about 5 minutes.

    8 minutes
    Keep your fingers curled under (claw grip) for safety when cutting.
  4. Step 4

    Pour tomato sauce over meatballs to serve.

    2 minutes
    Warm your serving plates in the oven briefly for a restaurant-quality touch.

💡 Tips & Tricks

This Algerian recipe for Algerian Kefta (Meatballs) is best served fresh. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

🔄 Variations

• Protein swap: Try substituting the main protein with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a different take on this dish. • Spice level: Adjust the heat to your preference — add more chili for extra kick, or reduce it for a milder version. • Vegetarian: Replace meat with mushrooms, chickpeas, or your favorite plant-based protein. • Fusion twist: Combine elements of Swedish cuisine with your local favorites for a creative fusion dish.

Storage & Reheating

❄️

Refrigerator

Up to 3 days in an airtight container

🧊

Freezer

Up to 2 months — thaw overnight in fridge

🔥

Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With

Complete your swedish meal with these perfect pairings:

🍽️Steamed rice or crusty bread
🍽️A fresh green salad
🍽️Seasonal roasted vegetables

About This Dish

Algerian Kefta (Meatballs) is a beloved dish from Swedish cuisine, originating in Sweden. With a total preparation time of about 45 minutes, it makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Swedish cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking traditions that reflect the culture and history of the region. This dish is a wonderful example of its distinctive culinary heritage.

This recipe is rated medium difficulty and uses 8 ingredients. Intermediate cooks will enjoy the balanced challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Authentic Algerian Kefta is typically made using ground beef, although you can also use a mix of beef and lamb for added flavor.

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Nutrition Facts

4 serving(s) per recipe

Serving size1 serving
Calories450kcal
Total Fat20g
Sodium480mg
Total Carbohydrates50g
Dietary Fiber3g
Protein54g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Recipe Details

CuisineSwedish
CategoryDinner
CountrySweden