Beef Kofta Kebabs (Printable version)
Juicy spiced beef kebabs with Middle Eastern flavors, aromatic herbs, and warm spices grilled to perfection.
# What you need:
→ Meats
01 - 1.1 lbs ground beef (ideally 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
→ Vegetables & Aromatics
02 - 1 small onion, grated or finely minced
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
05 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
→ Spices & Seasonings
06 - 1 tsp ground cumin
07 - 1 tsp ground coriander
08 - 1 tsp ground paprika
09 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
10 - 1/2 tsp ground allspice
11 - 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
12 - 1 tsp salt
13 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
→ Bindings
14 - 1 egg (optional, for extra binding)
→ To Serve
15 - Lemon wedges
16 - Fresh flatbreads or pita (optional)
17 - Sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumber, and fresh herbs (optional)
# How To:
01 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and all spices and seasonings. If desired, add the egg for extra binding.
02 - Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture becomes slightly sticky.
03 - Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a metal or soaked wooden skewer into long, oval-shaped kebabs, pressing firmly so they hold shape.
04 - Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan.
05 - Grill the kofta kebabs for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through.
06 - Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with lemon wedges, flatbreads, and accompaniments of your choice.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The spice blend hits every comfort note while feeling exotic enough for company
- These come together faster than you can set up a proper mezze spread
02 -
- Mixing the spices into room temperature beef helps everything distribute evenly
- Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes so they dont burn on the grill
03 -
- Mix a pinch of sumac into the meat mixture for authentic tangy depth
- Refrigerate the shaped kebabs for 20 minutes before grilling if they feel soft