beef kofta
Beef kofta, the classic Middle Eastern meatball, delivers juicy, spiced flavor in every bite for a healthy, delicious meal.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your grill or oven to high heat (about 220°C/428°F).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
- With damp hands, shape the mixture into oval-shaped meatballs or onto skewers, about 8–10 pieces.
- Brush each kofta with olive oil to keep them juicy during cooking.
- Grill or bake for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway, until browned and cooked through.
- Let the beef kofta rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Notes
Beef kofta is a wonderfully versatile dish that appears at both busy family dinners and festive gatherings across the Middle East. Its popularity comes from a combination of succulent texture and fragrant spices, making it a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly quick to prepare.
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Kofta
- Don't over-mix the meat: Combine the ingredients until just incorporated. Overworking ground beef can make the kofta dense instead of tender.
- Moisten your hands with a little water or olive oil before shaping the kofta. This prevents sticking and helps you form uniform, compact skewers or patties.
- If you can't find allspice or fresh parsley, substitute with fresh cilantro or a pinch of nutmeg for a slightly different flavor twist.
Preparation Techniques Worth Knowing
- Chill the kofta before grilling: If you have time, let them rest in the fridge for 20–30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
- For extra juiciness, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt to the meat mixture or use a blend of beef and lamb for a classic variation.
- Using flat, wide skewers helps the kofta cook evenly and keeps them from spinning or breaking apart on the grill.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
- Serve your beef kofta with warm pita bread, fresh tabbouleh, or a crisp cucumber-tomato salad to balance the spices.
- Drizzle with tahini sauce or a squeeze of lemon just before serving to brighten up the flavors.
- For a different twist, add chopped mint to the mixture or swap out beef for ground chicken or turkey.
