Juicy, herb-packed, and kissed with spices, Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are the kind of meal that instantly transports you to a bustling street market or a lively family table. These skewers of seasoned ground meat aren’t just delicious—they’re irresistibly savory, with a heady aroma that hints at cumin, coriander, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re a grilling pro or just looking to break out of your dinner routine, there’s something intensely satisfying about forming these koftas by hand and watching them sizzle on the grill. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to master these heavenly Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to be amazed by how a few humble staples can work some serious magic! Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, adding a layer of flavor, moisture, or color that makes all the difference in your finished Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs.
- Ground beef or lamb (or a mix): The star of the show! Choose high-quality meat for juicy texture and rich flavor—lamb adds earthiness, while beef keeps it classic.
- Onion: Grated onion not only infuses the kebabs with sweetness and depth, but also keeps the meat tender and moist as it cooks.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers a savory punch that is absolutely essential in authentic kofta kebabs.
- Fresh parsley: This herb brings vibrant color and a grassy, slightly peppery lift that pops against all those spices.
- Fresh mint (optional): Mint is optional, but it can add a unique brightness that tastes fantastic in these kebabs.
- Ground cumin: Aromatic and earthy, cumin sets the base for that signature Middle Eastern flair.
- Ground coriander: Coriander’s warm, citrusy notes add complexity and balance.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a whisper of cinnamon creates subtle warmth and rounds out the spice blend.
- Paprika: Paprika lends lovely color and a hint of smoky flavor to the meat.
- Allspice: Fragrant allspice adds depth and a little sweet spiciness that’s hard to pinpoint but impossible to miss.
- Salt: Key for seasoning—don’t skimp!
- Black pepper: Gives a gentle bite and amplifies all the other flavors beautifully.
- Olive oil (for brushing): A light brush of olive oil ensures these kofta kebabs stay juicy and develop a gorgeous char on the grill.
How to Make Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
Step 1: Mix Your Meat and Aromatics
The secret to unbelievably flavorful Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs starts right here. In a big bowl, combine your ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and mint if you’re using it. This is where you use your hands—don’t be shy! Get right in there and work those flavors together. The onion releases moisture, the herbs add bright green flecks, and everything should feel well mixed but not pasted together.
Step 2: Add the Spice Blend
Now sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, allspice, salt, and black pepper. This magical mix is what gives Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs their iconic flavor profile. Keep mixing with your hands until all the spices are distributed evenly throughout the meat. Trust me, every bite will be loaded with just the right amount of warmth, spice, and savoriness.
Step 3: Shape the Kofta
Divide your meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Take each one and gently form it into a long oval or cylinder shape right around your skewer. (If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water first to avoid burning.) The goal is a kebab that’s about 5 inches long and nicely packed—compact enough to stay together, but not so tight that it ends up tough when cooked.
Step 4: Chill the Skewers
Place your shaped kofta kebabs on a tray, cover them up, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and keeps them from falling apart when they hit the grill. It also gives the flavors a chance to mingle and deepen, so don’t skip this step!
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
When you’re ready to cook, fire up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates, then brush the koftas with olive oil so they don’t stick and develop a beautiful golden crust. Grill for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning every couple of minutes so all sides are charred and the inside is cooked through. Your kitchen (or backyard) will smell absolutely incredible!
How to Serve Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
Garnishes
Brighten up your platter of Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with all the trimmings! Scatter freshly chopped parsley or mint over the top for an extra pop of green. Squeeze a little lemon juice right before serving—it brings vibrancy and balances the richness of the meat. Don’t forget a drizzle of tahini sauce or a dollop of creamy tzatziki for a cool, tangy contrast.
Side Dishes
These kofta kebabs are incredibly versatile when it comes to sides. Try them with warm, fluffy pita or flatbread to scoop up every last juicy bite. A crisp cucumber-tomato salad with sumac is classic, but they’re equally at home beside a generous helping of rice pilaf, tabbouleh, or even garlicky roasted potatoes. The mix of textures and flavors turns any meal into a celebration!
Creative Ways to Present
For a modern twist, slide your Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs off the skewers and wrap them in soft lavash bread with pickles, onions, and fresh greens for an irresistible kofta wrap. You can also slice them and serve them as part of a mezze platter alongside grilled vegetables, hummus, and olives for a fun, interactive spread that encourages everyone at the table to dig in and customize their plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store your cooled Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They hold up beautifully and make a quick, protein-packed snack or addition to a salad the next day.
Freezing
Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs freeze really well! Just let the cooked (or even uncooked, shaped) kebabs cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap before popping them into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months—ideal for meal prep or easy last-minute dinners.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the kebabs in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat briefly on a skillet or grill for that fresh-off-the-fire taste. A quick spritz of water and covering with foil helps prevent them from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use only beef or only lamb for my kofta kebabs?
Absolutely! Whether you choose all beef, all lamb, or a mixture, you’ll end up with delicious Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs. Lamb brings a slightly gamier, more traditional taste, while beef is milder and a little more familiar to most palates—mix and match based on your preference.
Can I make kofta kebabs without skewers?
You sure can! Simply shape the meat mixture into small patties or logs and cook them directly on the grill, a grill pan, or even in the oven. The skewers make for classic presentation and easy turning, but the magic is all in the flavor, not the stick!
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! These kofta kebabs can be baked in a preheated 400°F oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. For a bit of charring, briefly broil them at the end. You can also sear them in a skillet on the stove for beautiful browning.
How do I keep the kebabs from falling apart?
The chilling step is crucial—it firms them up so they hold their shape on the grill. Make sure your onion is finely grated (to blend seamlessly with the meat) and don’t overwork the mixture. If things seem too wet, adding a spoonful of breadcrumbs can help, though classic kofta is usually breadcrumb-free.
Are Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you skip the bread for serving, these kofta kebabs are naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your spices to ensure no additives, and you’ll have a meal everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs have been beloved for generations—the combination of herbs, spices, and smoky char is simply unforgettable. If you haven’t tried making them at home yet, this is your sign to go for it! Gather your ingredients, get your hands in the mix, and enjoy every bite of these flavorful, satisfying skewers with your favorite people.
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Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are a flavorful and aromatic dish made with a blend of ground beef or lamb, spices, and herbs. Perfect for grilling, these kebabs are juicy and delicious, ideal for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients
For the Kofta:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb (or a mix)
- 1 small onion, grated or finely minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, mint (if using), cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix well using your hands until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a long oval or cylinder around metal or soaked wooden skewers.
- Place the skewers on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Brush the kofta lightly with olive oil and grill for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely charred on all sides.
- Serve hot with pita bread, tzatziki or tahini sauce, and a fresh salad.
Notes
- For best flavor, chill the meat mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- You can also bake the kofta in a 400°F oven for 20–25 minutes if you don’t have a grill.
- Serve with rice or wrap in flatbread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 kebabs
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
