Savory, juicy, and packed with fragrant spices, Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are a classic dish made from ground beef or lamb, mixed with herbs and warm spices, then grilled or pan-seared to perfection. Traditionally served with creamy tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and warm pita or saffron rice, these kebabs are a flavorful and satisfying staple of Middle Eastern cuisine — perfect for both casual meals and festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These kofta kebabs are beloved across many cultures for their bold flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Authentic spice blend: A balanced mix of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika delivers true Middle Eastern flavor.
- Versatile protein: Use ground beef or lamb depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Quick to make: Just 20 minutes from start to finish with minimal prep time.
- Great for grilling or stovetop: Perfect for any season or kitchen setup.
- Meal-friendly: Serve with rice, bread, or salad — it works beautifully in wraps or bowls.
- Make-ahead option: The flavor improves when marinated in advance.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef or lamb
- Onion, grated and squeezed
- Garlic, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Sumac (optional)
- Ground cinnamon
- Dried oregano
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Ground nutmeg
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
- Black pepper
For serving:
- Tzatziki sauce
- Sliced cucumber
- Chopped tomato
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Saffron rice or warm pita bread
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, grated onion (squeezed dry), garlic, parsley, and all spices. Mix thoroughly with clean hands or a fork until fully incorporated.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to develop.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30–60 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
- Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal parts. Shape each portion into a cylindrical kebab around a skewer.
- Preheat a grill, griddle pan, or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface.
- Cook the kebabs for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes to ensure they are evenly browned and fully cooked.
- Serve hot with tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and either saffron rice or warm pita bread.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 8 kebabs
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Calories per serving: 265 kcal
Variations
- Mixed meats: Use a blend of lamb and beef for a more complex flavor profile.
- Vegetarian alternative: Substitute with a chickpea or lentil base using the same seasoning.
- Spicy kofta: Add more cayenne or finely chopped chili for extra heat.
- No skewers: Shape into patties or logs and cook directly on a grill or pan.
- Herb variations: Include fresh mint or cilantro for a different herbal note.
- Yogurt marinade: For even juicier kebabs, mix a few tablespoons of yogurt into the meat before shaping.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked shaped kebabs for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
FAQs
What is kofta?
Kofta refers to seasoned ground meat shaped into patties or skewers, commonly found in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisines.
Can I cook kofta kebabs in the oven?
Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or broil them for a charred finish.
What’s the best meat for kofta?
Ground lamb offers traditional flavor, but ground beef or a beef-lamb mix also works well.
How do I prevent the kebabs from falling off the skewers?
Ensure the meat mixture is well chilled and squeezed of excess moisture, especially from the onion. Firmly press the meat around the skewer.
Can I make kofta without a grill?
Absolutely. A stovetop skillet or oven works perfectly for cooking kofta indoors.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the accompaniments (like pita) are gluten-free, the kofta itself contains no gluten.
Can I use other herbs besides parsley?
Yes, fresh cilantro or mint can be used to complement or replace parsley for a different flavor.
Can I prepare the meat mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the meat mixture up to 24 hours ahead.
How do I serve kofta kebabs?
Serve with tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and a side of pita bread or rice. They also work well in wraps or grain bowls.
Can I use pre-ground spice blends instead?
Yes, you can use a Middle Eastern or shawarma spice blend, but adjust salt and heat levels to taste.
Conclusion
Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs offer a delicious and easy way to bring bold, traditional flavors to your table. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked on the stovetop, these juicy skewers are a go-to choice for a hearty, well-seasoned meal. Paired with creamy tzatziki, crisp vegetables, and warm bread or rice, they make a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or festive occasions.
PrintMiddle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
Juicy and flavorful Middle Eastern kofta kebabs made with spiced ground beef or lamb, herbs, and aromatic spices. Grilled to perfection and served with creamy tzatziki, fresh veggies, and warm pita or rice, these skewers are perfect for a quick meal or festive cookout.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 kebabs 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef or lamb
- 1/2 small onion, grated and squeezed
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 cup parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon sumac (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Tzatziki sauce
- Sliced cucumber
- Chopped tomato
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Saffron rice or warm pita bread
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until fully combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to enhance the flavors.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30–60 minutes to prevent burning.
- Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a cylindrical kebab and insert onto a skewer.
- Preheat a grill, griddle pan, or stovetop skillet. Lightly oil the surface.
- Cook kebabs for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until evenly browned and cooked through.
- Serve hot with tzatziki sauce, fresh salad veggies, and either saffron rice or warm pita bread.
Notes
- Grating and squeezing the onion prevents excess moisture from making the mixture too soft.
- Chilling the kofta mix helps it hold its shape better on the skewer.
- Kebabs can also be cooked in the oven or air fryer if a grill isn’t available.
- Add mint or fresh dill to the tzatziki for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kebab
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg