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beef kofta

beef kofta

Beef kofta packed with Mediterranean flavor. Juicy, spiced meatballs—deliciously healthy and quick to prepare for busy days.
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Total Time 36 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 340
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g lean ground beef
  • 0.5 unit onion finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 0.5 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

  1. Grate the onion and chop the parsley finely.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly with your hands until well blended.
  3. Shape the mixture into small oval logs or balls, about the size of a golf ball. Press and compact gently for them to hold together.
  4. If using skewers, carefully thread each kofta onto skewers.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  6. Cook the kofta for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a side salad if desired.

Notes

Beef kofta is a wonderful example of Mediterranean cuisine's ability to turn simple ingredients into something deeply flavorful and versatile. Whether served at a family dinner, grilled outdoors, or tucked into pita with fresh salad, these spiced meatballs are satisfying and always a hit.

Kitchen Tips for the Perfect Kofta

Use fresh herbs and spices for the best aroma. If you prefer, you can swap parsley for cilantro or mint for a new flavor profile. To avoid dry kofta, choose beef with a little fat content and mix the ingredients thoroughly—but don’t overwork the meat, as this can make it dense.
Shaping tip: Wet your hands slightly before forming the kofta. This prevents sticking and creates a smoother finish.

Cooking Techniques and Swaps

If you don’t have skewers, simply form the mixture into patties or small balls. For a lighter dish, turkey or chicken also work beautifully as substitutes for beef. Cooking on a grill will add a nice smoky touch, but a stovetop skillet works just as well.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Beef kofta is exceptionally good with sides like tzatziki, hummus, tabbouleh, or a crisp cucumber-tomato salad. Serve them alongside warm flatbreads or over rice for a heartier meal. Leftover kofta is fantastic in wraps the next day, topped with your favorite sauces or fresh veggies. Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon just before serving for bright, fresh flavor!