Description
Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are flavorful and aromatic grilled meat skewers made from ground beef or lamb mixed with fresh herbs and warm spices. This easy-to-make recipe features a juicy, tender texture with a perfect blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika that delivers an authentic taste. Ideal for a main course, these kebabs are traditionally served hot alongside pita bread, hummus, or a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce, offering a delicious Mediterranean dining experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix)
- ½ onion, finely grated
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint if using, and all spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired). Mix thoroughly using your hands to combine all ingredients evenly, but avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.
- Form Kebabs: Divide the meat mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a skewer into a long, oval-shaped log about 1 inch thick, ensuring the mixture adheres well to the skewer.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill Kebabs: Place the kofta kebabs on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to brown evenly on all sides and ensure they are cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the hot kofta kebabs immediately with traditional accompaniments like pita bread, hummus, or cucumber yogurt sauce for an authentic Middle Eastern meal.
Notes
- Kebabs can also be broiled in the oven for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.
- Serve with rice, tabbouleh, or fresh tomato salad to create a complete meal.
- For extra moisture and flavor, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture before shaping.
