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. This recipe combines ground beef or lamb with fresh herbs and warm spices, resulting in juicy kebabs with a delightful aroma. They make a fantastic main dish for any casual meal or gathering.

The image shows a close-up of six grilled meat patties arranged on a white plate. Each patty is thick and oval-shaped, with a browned and slightly charred surface showing grill marks. Small bits of green herbs are visible embedded in the patties, adding specks of green to the rich brown texture. In the background, there are slices of grilled yellow and red peppers and a sprig of fresh parsley adding some green color, all resting on a white marbled surface. The meat looks juicy and well-cooked, with a shiny, slightly oily finish. 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 the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 3: Divide the mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Shape each portion onto a skewer, forming a long oval kebab shape around the stick.
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 kofta kebabs for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning and thorough cooking.
Step 6: Serve the kebabs hot with rice, flatbread, or a side of tahini or yogurt sauce for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture and flavor, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture before shaping.
Try adding chopped mint alongside parsley and cilantro for a fresh twist.
If you like less heat, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
These kebabs can also be cooked under a broiler if a grill is not available, turning carefully to brown all sides.

Storage

Store cooked kofta kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, freeze cooked kebabs for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of six grilled meat patties placed side by side on a white plate. Each patty has a golden-brown crust with small green herb pieces embedded in the meat, giving it a textured and juicy look. Behind the patties, there are layers of colorful fresh vegetables including slices of red onion with purple and white rings, green leafy herbs, and orange and yellow bell pepper strips. The background is a white marbled texture, adding a clean and bright contrast to the warm tones of the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or a mix of meats, but be mindful the cooking time may vary due to different fat contents.

How do I prevent the kebabs from falling apart?

Make sure to mix the meat and ingredients thoroughly and press firmly when shaping the kebabs on the skewers. Slightly wetting your hands while shaping can help the meat stick better.