beef kofta
Beef kofta for a healthier dinner. Simple, protein-packed, and delicious—all with that irresistible touch of Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix well using your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small oval or cylindrical patties, about the size of your palm. For traditional style, mold them around skewers.
- Brush each kofta with a bit of olive oil for extra juiciness.
- Heat a grill, grill pan, or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the koftas for 2–3 minutes per side, turning until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes total.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and your favorite accompaniments like grilled veggies or yogurt sauce.
Notes
Beef kofta is a beloved staple across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern tables, known for its versatility and incredible flavor. Whether prepared for a quick family dinner or served as part of a vibrant mezze, this dish adapts beautifully to every occasion and is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Practical Tips for Flavorful Koftas
- Use freshly ground beef, ideally with a bit of fat for maximum juiciness. Too lean, and your koftas may turn out dry. If 80/20 isn’t available, drizzle a little extra olive oil into the mix.
- Mix gently. Overworking the meat can make koftas dense. Combine just until the ingredients come together evenly.
- If you’re grilling with skewers, soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before shaping the meat around them. This prevents burning and helps the koftas cook evenly.
Easy Ingredient Swaps & Creative Variations
- No beef? Try lamb for authentic richness or ground chicken/turkey for a lighter option.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat, or swap parsley for fresh cilantro to brighten the flavor.
- Feel free to mix in chopped veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, for a nutritional boost.
Expert Preparation Techniques
- Chilling the mixture for 20–30 minutes in the fridge will help hold the shape during cooking and intensify the flavors.
- For super tender koftas, you can blend the onion and parsley into a paste before mixing with the meat, which helps keep everything moist and well-distributed.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate the Experience
- Pair beef kofta with grilled vegetables, warm pita bread, and tangy yogurt sauce for a complete meal.
- Consider adding sides like tabbouleh, roasted potatoes, or a simple tomato-cucumber salad for a fresh, colorful plate.
- Warm leftovers make excellent pita sandwiches with greens and a drizzle of tahini or hummus.
