Name: Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both); 1 small onion, grated; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon allspice; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (wooden or metal)

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Introduction

Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are flavorful, spiced meat skewers that bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Made with ground beef or lamb and aromatic herbs and spices, they are perfect for grilling and serve beautifully with rice or flatbread.

The image shows a close-up of seven grilled meat patties that are golden brown with a slight char, cooked with visible green herbs mixed inside. They are arranged closely on a round white plate, with some fresh green parsley leaves peeking out underneath and around the patties. In the background, there are blurred slices of yellow and red bell peppers and some leafy greens, adding a touch of color contrast. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
1 small onion, grated
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

Step 1: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and cilantro, and all the spices. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Divide the mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a skewer into a long, oval kebab shape, pressing firmly so it holds together.
Step 4: Preheat your grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill the kebabs for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they brown evenly and cook through completely.
Step 6: Serve the hot kebabs alongside rice, flatbread, or with a simple tahini or yogurt sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture and flavor, add a tablespoon of plain yogurt to the meat mixture before shaping.
Try mixing half beef and half lamb for a richer taste.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to make the kebabs more or less spicy according to your preference.
Use metal skewers for easier grilling and reuse.

Storage

Store uncooked kofta kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. Cooked kebabs can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or warm oven to avoid drying out. They also freeze well; freeze cooked kebabs in a sealed container for up to 2 months, thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows six grilled meat patties, each oval shaped with a slightly rough texture, a golden-brown color marked with darker charred spots, and small green herb bits spread throughout. The patties are lined up in two rows on a white plate. Behind the patties, there are colorful fresh slices of vegetables including bright orange carrot sticks, red and white onion chunks, and leafy green herbs scattered around. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. The overall scene is bright and detailed, focusing mainly on the juicy, textured patties. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make kofta kebabs without a grill?

Yes, you can cook kofta kebabs in a grill pan on the stove or under a broiler in the oven. Just be sure to turn them regularly for even cooking.

What can I serve with these kebabs?

These kebabs pair wonderfully with basmati rice, warm flatbreads like pita or lavash, and sauces such as tahini, tzatziki, or plain yogurt with a squeeze of lemon.