Kofta Recipe

These Kofta kebabs are a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for grilling, air frying, or even pan-frying. Made with a blend of ground beef or lamb, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, these kebabs are a delicious and satisfying option for a casual meal, a party appetizer, or a fun addition to your next barbeque.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Kofta kebabs:

For the Kofta:

• Ground beef or lamb: Use your preferred type of ground meat for the kebabs.
• Onion: Shredded or finely diced, for flavor and texture.
• Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
• Fresh parsley and mint: Finely chopped, these herbs add a bright and fresh flavor to the kebabs.
• Sumac: A tangy and slightly lemony spice that’s essential for authentic kofta flavor.
• Ground black pepper, salt, allspice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon: A blend of spices that adds warmth and complexity to the kebabs.

For Serving:

• Tzatziki sauce: A creamy yogurt-based sauce with cucumbers and herbs.
• Hummus: A creamy chickpea dip.
• Greek salad: A refreshing salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled, adds a salty and tangy flavor.
• Pita bread: Warm, for serving the kebabs.

How to Make Kofta

Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb, shredded or finely diced onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and mint, sumac, black pepper, salt, allspice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Mix well with your hands until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Chill the Mixture

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up, making it easier to shape.

Step 3: Form the Kebabs

Measure out about ½ cup of the chilled kofta mixture and, with damp hands, form it into a cylinder shape. Thread the meat cylinder onto a skewer, making sure it’s tightly packed around the skewer. Repeat with the remaining kofta mixture.

Step 4: Grill or Air Fry the Kebabs

Grilling: Oil the grates of your grill and heat it to medium-high. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Place the kofta kebabs on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes, turning them occasionally, until browned on all sides. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Place a few kofta kebabs in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. Air fry for 7-8 minutes, or until cooked through and browned, shaking the basket halfway through.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the kofta kebabs hot, either on their own with your favorite dipping sauces or in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce, hummus, Greek salad, and crumbled feta cheese.

How to Serve Kofta

• Kebabs: Serve the kofta kebabs on skewers with your favorite dipping sauces, such as tahini sauce, hummus, or yogurt sauce.
• Pita Bread: Stuff the kebabs into warm pita bread with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and sauces.
• Rice Bowls: Serve the kofta over a bed of rice or couscous with a side of salad or vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven, air fryer, or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey, but the flavor will be different.

Can I bake the kofta instead of grilling or air frying them?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Can I make these kebabs vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the meat with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.

How can I make these kebabs spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the meat mixture.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Kofta (Beef or Lamb) that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Print