beef kofta
Beef kofta in a light version, juicy and full of spices. Perfect for a practical meal with an authentic, irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the grill or a skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Divide the mixture into 8 portions and shape each into oval meatballs. Insert skewers if desired.
- Brush each kofta with a bit of olive oil.
- Grill the kofta for about 4–5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley or mint. Enjoy your flavorful beef kofta!
Notes
Beef kofta is a beloved classic of Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its rich blend of spices and juicy texture. Its versatility makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or even a backyard grill party. It adapts well to different serving styles: from wraps with flatbreads and tahini sauce, to a main dish with rice or salads.
Practical tips for perfect beef kofta
- Use lean ground beef for a lighter version, but make sure there is still some fat (around 15%) to keep the kofta moist and flavorful.
- Fresh herbs like mint and parsley are essential. If you don’t have mint, fresh cilantro adds a unique touch.
- Chop onions very finely or grate them to avoid large pieces, ensuring they blend seamlessly into the mix and help retain moisture.
- If your mixture feels too wet to shape, sprinkle in a teaspoon of bread crumbs—not too much, or you risk dryness.
Technique Insight
Mix the meat gently—overworking it will make the kofta tough. Just enough to combine the spices and herbs. For extra flavor, let the meat mixture rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping and grilling. This helps the spices infuse and the kofta hold together better on the grill or skewers.Serving Ideas & Variations
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Offer a side of hummus, tzatziki, or spicy harissa for dipping.
- Turn leftovers into wraps with pita bread, lettuce, and tomatoes for a quick lunch the next day.
- Switch up the protein with ground lamb or a mix of beef and lamb for a richer result.
