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 are perfect for grilling season or a cozy dinner at home. Made with a blend of ground beef or lamb and aromatic herbs and spices, these kebabs are juicy, tender, and packed with deliciously warm flavors.

A close-up of seven grilled meat patties arranged side by side on a white plate, each patty showing a textured, browned and slightly charred surface with visible green herb pieces mixed in. Behind the patties, there are colorful vegetable chunks including bright orange carrot sticks, light green cucumber slices, and purple onion wedges, all placed on a white marbled surface that acts as the background. Fresh green parsley leaves are scattered around the edges, adding a pop of color to the scene. The photo is bright with natural lighting highlighting the juicy texture of the meat and the freshness of the vegetables, 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, chopped cilantro, and all the spices. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 3: Divide the meat mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a skewer into a long, oval kebab shape.
Step 4: Preheat your grill, grill pan, or broiler over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook the kebabs for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve the kofta kebabs hot with rice, flatbread, or a side of tahini or yogurt sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit of grated onion juice to the meat mixture.
Swap fresh herbs for dried if needed, reducing quantity to about 1 tablespoon each.
Use lamb for a richer flavor or a beef-lamb mix for balanced taste.
Add finely chopped mint for a refreshing twist.
Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Storage

Store leftover kofta kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through. These kebabs can also be frozen before cooking; shape and freeze on the skewer, then thaw before grilling.

How to Serve

Seven browned, round meat patties with grilled marks and visible green herbs are tightly arranged on a white plate. Behind the patties, there are colorful pieces of red and yellow bell peppers, and green leafy garnish adds fresh contrast around the food. The surface beneath the plate shows a white marbled texture. The lighting highlights the juicy texture and charred edges of the patties, making them look hot and tasty. 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, under the broiler, or even on a stovetop skillet. Just adjust the heat as needed and turn often to cook evenly.

How can I prevent the koftas from falling off the skewers?

Make sure the meat mixture is well mixed and slightly sticky. Press the mixture firmly onto the skewers to form a compact shape. Chilling them for 15-20 minutes before cooking can also help them hold together better.