Authentic Beef Kofta Recipe

Beef kofta is a popular Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dish made with seasoned ground beef, shaped into logs or patties, and cooked to perfection. These flavorful meat skewers are juicy, tender, and packed with aromatic spices. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-fried, beef kofta makes a perfect main dish for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make delicious beef kofta from scratch, along with variations, serving ideas, and helpful cooking tips. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make the best beef kofta, you’ll need:

For the Kofta:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio for juiciness)
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground allspice
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Serving:

• Warm pita bread or rice
• Tzatziki sauce or tahini sauce
• Chopped cucumber and tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges

How to Make Beef Kofta recipe ?

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and all the spices. Add the olive oil and lemon juice for extra moisture and flavor. Mix everything well using your hands or a wooden spoon until fully combined.

Step 2: Shape the Kofta

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into oval logs or cylindrical kebabs. If using skewers, mold the meat around them firmly to ensure they hold together while cooking. If not using skewers, shape them into small patties or elongated logs.

Step 3: Chill the Kofta

For the best texture, refrigerate the kofta for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors meld together and keeps the meat firm.

Step 4: Cook the Kofta

• Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the kofta for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are charred on the outside and cooked through.
• Pan-Frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the kofta for 5-6 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked.
• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the kofta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the beef kofta hot with pita bread, rice, or salad. Pair it with your favorite dips like tzatziki, hummus, or tahini sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Variations

• Lamb Kofta: Substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a richer taste.
• Spicy Kofta: Add extra chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
• Cheesy Kofta: Stuff small cubes of feta or mozzarella inside each kofta for a cheesy surprise.
• Herbed Kofta: Add chopped mint or cilantro for a fresh twist.

Cooking Notes

• Choose the Right Meat: Use ground beef with at least 15-20% fat for juicier kofta. Lean beef can make the kofta dry.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the kofta tough. Mix gently to keep it tender.
• Use Skewers Properly: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve beef kofta with buttery basmati rice and a side of grilled vegetables.
• Wrap it in pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and yogurt sauce for a delicious sandwich.
• Pair it with garlic sauce, hummus, or a fresh cucumber salad for an authentic Middle Eastern meal.

Helpful Tips

✔ Chill the Kofta Before Cooking – This helps keep the shape intact.
✔ Oil Your Hands While Shaping – Prevents the mixture from sticking.
✔ Cook on Medium Heat – Avoid burning the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
✔ Test One First – Cook one kofta first to adjust seasoning before cooking the whole batch.

Related Recipes :

• The Best Beef Enchiladas with Red Sauce
• Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta Recipe
• Hearty Ground Beef and Potatoes Dishes
• Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

FAQs

1. Can I make beef kofta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Shape them just before cooking.

2. How do I keep beef kofta from falling apart?

Make sure to finely chop the onions and don’t add too much moisture. Also, chilling the mixture helps it hold together.

3. Can I freeze beef kofta?

Absolutely! Shape the kofta and freeze them raw in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag and store for up to 3 months. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. What can I serve with beef kofta?

Rice, pita bread, hummus, garlic sauce, grilled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad are great side options.

5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, but turkey is leaner, so add a little extra olive oil or yogurt to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Beef kofta is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. Whether grilled, pan-fried, or baked, these juicy and spiced beef kebabs bring Middle Eastern flavors straight to your kitchen. Serve them with pita, rice, and fresh salads for an unforgettable meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade beef kofta!

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