beef kofta
Beef kofta is a delicious, protein-rich option. Discover how to prepare these flavorful, juicy meatballs for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into an oval or cylinder around a wooden or metal skewer. If you don’t have skewers, roll them into meatballs.
- Brush the koftas lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
- Grill the koftas for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. If using the oven, place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, turning once halfway.
- Serve hot with your choice of salad, rice, and yogurt sauce.
Notes
Beef kofta is a classic dish celebrated in Middle Eastern kitchens for its incredible flavor and crowd-pleasing appeal. Its versatility makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or even as part of a vibrant mezze platter. Juicy, spiced beef skewers are quick to prepare and bring a unique twist to your meal rotation.
Practical Tips for the Perfect Kofta
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier result, but ensure it’s not too dry—around 10-15% fat is ideal for juicy kofta.
- If your mixture feels too wet to shape, chill it for 15–20 minutes so it firms up, making it easier to mold on skewers.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning.
- Don’t overmix the meat—it can get tough. Gently combine the ingredients just until blended.
- For extra flavor, experiment by adding grated zucchini (well-squeezed) or fresh mint to the mixture.
Preparation Insights
Grilling gives kofta an unbeatable smoky flavor, but baking or pan-searing works well too if you’re short on time or don’t have a grill. To ensure even cooking, shape the kofta uniformly and avoid crowding them on the grill or baking tray. If you want an even juicier kofta, a dash of yogurt or a bit of soaked bread added to the mix creates a tender texture.Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Serve beef kofta with a side of herbed yogurt sauce, warm pita, and fresh salads like tabbouleh or fattoush for a complete meal.
- For a low-carb option, pair with a cucumber-tomato salad and roasted vegetables.
- You can swap beef for lamb, chicken, or even plant-based mince for different tastes or dietary needs.
- Spice things up by mixing in a pinch of chili flakes or sumac for extra depth.
