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Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe

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4.7 from 71 reviews

These Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are flavorful ground beef or lamb skewers seasoned with fragrant spices and fresh herbs. Perfectly grilled to juicy tenderness, they make a delicious main dish served alongside rice, flatbread, or a creamy tahini or yogurt sauce.

Ingredients

Meat Mixture

  • 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

Other

  • Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

  1. Soak Skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
  2. Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and cilantro, and all the spices including cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Shape Kebabs: Divide the meat mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Mold each portion onto a skewer, shaping it into a long oval kebab shape, ensuring it is evenly packed and secure on the skewer.
  4. Preheat Grill or Pan: Preheat a grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan surface to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook Kebabs: Place the kebabs on the grill or pan and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even browning and thorough cooking through the center.
  6. Serve: Remove the kebabs from heat and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy with sides like rice, flatbread, or a side of tahini or yogurt sauce for a complete Middle Eastern meal.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
  • You can use all beef, all lamb, or a mix depending on your taste preference.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper amount based on your heat tolerance or omit for no spice.
  • Fresh herbs add bright flavor—fresh parsley and cilantro are key.
  • For easier handling, lightly oil your hands when shaping kebabs onto skewers.
  • These kebabs can also be cooked under a broiler if a grill isn’t available.
  • Serve with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast.

Find it online: https://forkvista.com/middle-eastern-kofta-kebabs-recipe/