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Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

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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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until fully combined.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to enhance the flavors.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30–60 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each into a cylindrical kebab and insert onto a skewer.
  5. Preheat a grill, griddle pan, or stovetop skillet. Lightly oil the surface.
  6. Cook kebabs for 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until evenly browned and cooked through.
  7. 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

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/middle-eastern-kofta-kebabs/