Description
Few dishes showcase the rich, aromatic flavors of the Middle East quite like these Juicy Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs. Juicy, spiced, and perfectly charred, they’re a staple in Middle Eastern meat dishes and can be grilled or baked for an easy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb (or a mix for richer flavor)
- 1 small onion, grated or finely minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare onion and garlic: Grate the onion and squeeze out excess liquid. Mince the garlic.
- Mix the meat: In a large bowl, combine meat, onion, garlic, herbs, and spices. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the kebabs: Divide into 8 portions and mold each around a skewer into a long oval shape.
- Preheat grill: Heat to medium-high and brush grates with oil.
- Cook the kebabs: Grill for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (160°F/70°C).
- Rest and serve: Let rest 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use meat with at least 15–20% fat for juiciness.
- For Moroccan flavor, add ras el hanout.
- For Persian style, use turmeric, saffron, and sumac.
- If no grill, cook in a grill pan or broil in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern