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
Scale
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