Persian Patties — Kotletes

2 eggs

1½-2 pounds 80 percent lean ground beef

1 large onion finely chopped

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1-2 slices white bread softened in water (see note) or ½ cup mashed potatoes

Fine bread crumbs

Oil (olive or vegetable) for frying

In a large bowl, beat the eggs slightly and then add the meat, onion, seasonings and potatoes (or bread) and blend until mixture looks uniform. Shape into ovals or rounds that resemble hamburger patties. Coat evenly with coat bread crumbs.Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet and saute patties, turning once, until meat is no longer pink. Alternately, cook on a grill or under a broiler. Serve with saffron rice.Serves four to six.Cook#146;s notes: Onion can be put into a food processor or electric food chopper with a small amount of water so that it is finely chopped, almost pureed. If using bread, squeeze out excess water.