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Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe

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4.6 from 138 reviews

These Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are flavorful ground meat skewers blended with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, grilled to perfection for a juicy, satisfying meal. Perfect as a main dish served alongside rice, flatbread, or creamy tahini sauce, they bring authentic regional taste to your table with simple ingredients and quick preparation.

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 using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  2. Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and cilantro, and all the spices. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape Koftas: Divide the meat mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Mold each portion onto a skewer, shaping them into elongated oval kebabs firmly around the skewer.
  4. Preheat Grill: Heat a grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan surface to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook Kebabs: Grill the koftas for approximately 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning and thorough cooking until the kebabs are fully cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.
  6. Serve: Remove kebabs from heat and serve immediately while hot. Pair with rice, flatbread, or a side of tahini or yogurt sauce to complete the meal.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during grilling.
  • Mix the meat gently to avoid compacting, keeping the koftas tender.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control spiciness.
  • Ground lamb gives a richer flavor, but beef is a good alternative.
  • Can be cooked in a broiler or on a grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t available.

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