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 delicious aroma and taste to your table. Made with a blend of ground beef or lamb and fragrant herbs and spices, these kebabs are perfect for grilling and serving with your favorite sides.

The image shows a black plate filled with six grilled meat patties. Each patty is shaped like a small, slightly flattened oval with a textured surface showing char marks and small green herbs mixed inside the meat. Behind the patties, there are chopped fresh vegetables: vibrant orange carrot slices, bright yellow pepper pieces, green cucumber slices, purple onion wedges with white centers, and fresh green parsley leaves. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. 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 thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Divide the meat mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Mold each portion firmly onto a skewer, shaping it into a long, oval kebab.
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: Cook the kebabs for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides and ensure they are cooked through.
Step 6: Serve the kofta kebabs hot with rice, flatbread, or a side of tahini or yogurt sauce for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture before shaping.
Try mixing half ground lamb and half beef for a richer flavor.
If you prefer milder kebabs, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount.
To boost the charred flavor, cook the kebabs on a charcoal grill if available.

Storage

Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or oven to keep them juicy. You can also freeze cooked kebabs for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

There are eight grilled meat patties on a white plate, each patty having a slightly rough texture with visible green herbs and charred grill marks on the surface, showing a mix of brown, golden, and dark patches. The patties have a juicy, shiny look with uneven shapes, some more oval and some round. Around the patties, there are fresh green parsley leaves, and in the blurred background, slices of yellow and red bell peppers and a piece of red tomato add bright spots of color. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use wooden skewers without soaking them first?

It’s best to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning or catching fire.

What can I serve with kofta kebabs?

Kofta kebabs pair wonderfully with rice, pita bread, fresh salad, and sauces like tahini, yogurt sauce, or hummus for a well-rounded meal.