Description
Juicy and flavorful Middle Eastern–inspired kofta kebabs made with ground lamb or beef, fresh herbs, and warm spices, then grilled or cooked until perfectly charred. A quick and versatile meal ideal for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground lamb, beef, or 50/50 mix
1/2 small onion, finely grated or minced
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon or allspice
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne or chili flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp breadcrumbs or almond flour (optional, for binding)
1 tsp sumac or za’atar (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, if using lean meat)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, onion, garlic, herbs, spices, salt, pepper, and optional breadcrumbs or almond flour. Mix gently until just combined without overworking the meat.
- Cover and chill the mixture for 30 minutes to firm up and make shaping easier.
- Divide mixture into 6–8 portions. Shape each portion into a long sausage around soaked wooden or metal skewers, or form into oval patties if not using skewers.
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high and oil grates. Grill kebabs for 4–5 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F/71°C).
- Broil Method: Place on a foil-lined baking sheet with rack. Broil 4–5 inches from heat source for 5–6 minutes per side.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium-high heat and cook for about 4 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked.
- Serve warm with pita, rice, salads, and sauces like tzatziki or tahini yogurt.
Notes
Chilling the mixture helps prevent the kofta from falling apart.
Use meat with at least 80/20 fat content for juicier results.
Add smoked paprika for deeper flavor or feta cubes for a creamy center.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked or raw shaped kebabs for up to 3 months.
Reheat in a skillet or 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grill, Broil, or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/5 of recipe (approx. 2 kebabs)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg