If you’re in the mood to transport your kitchen straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East, Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are sure to do the trick. These juicy, aromatic grilled skewers blend ground meat with warm spices, fresh herbs, and just a hint of heat, making every bite an explosion of flavor and pure comfort. Whether you’re grilling outdoors with friends or broiling indoors for a cozy family dinner, this recipe turns simple pantry staples into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs so irresistible is the harmony between a modest list of ingredients. Each one brings its unique touch, building layers of flavor and color that define this classic dish.
- Ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both): The heart of the kebabs—choose what you love most for a richer or leaner flavor.
- Onion (½, grated or finely minced): Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that melts right into the meat.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings a kick of warmth and unmistakable Middle Eastern aroma.
- Fresh parsley (¼ cup, finely chopped): Offers a burst of color and a fresh, herby finish.
- Fresh mint (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): Lends a cooling note that balances the spices perfectly—optional but highly recommended!
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Gives the kebabs their signature earthy undertone.
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): Adds a zesty, citrusy pop that brightens the mix.
- Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon): Infuses subtle warmth and a hint of sweetness.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Contributes mild smokiness and a beautiful red hue.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): Offers a gentle kick for those who love a little heat.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Balances and deepens the seasoning profile.
- Wooden or metal skewers: The trusty vehicles for transforming seasoned meat into delicious kebabs—don’t forget to soak wooden ones to prevent burning!
How to Make Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, give them a good soak in water for at least 30 minutes. This small step prevents any charring or catching on fire while grilling, so your Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs turn out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Mix the Meat and Spices
Grab a large bowl and combine the ground meat, grated onion, garlic, parsley, mint (if you’re indulging), cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mixing with your hands ensures everything is evenly distributed but don’t overwork it—the goal is tender kebabs, not tough ones!
Step 3: Shape the Kebabs
Divide your savory mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Mold each one firmly around a skewer, creating long, oval shapes that are about an inch thick. Press gently but confidently to help them hold together on the grill.
Step 4: Chill the Kebabs
Lining the kebabs up on a tray or baking sheet, pop them in the fridge for 15 to 30 minutes. This quick chill helps set their shape, so they stay together beautifully as they cook and don’t crumble on the grill.
Step 5: Grill or Broil to Perfection
Heat a grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high. Cook the kebabs for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re nicely charred on all sides and cooked through. The kitchen will smell so inviting — the anticipation is worth it!
How to Serve Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
Garnishes
Top your Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with a flourish of fresh parsley, a sprinkle of sumac, or even a squeeze of lemon for that zippy finish. A dollop of creamy tzatziki or a drizzle of tahini sauce adds a delightful contrast and makes every bite extra memorable.
Side Dishes
Pile your kebabs onto a platter alongside warm pita, fluffy rice, or vibrant salads. Hummus and a fresh cucumber-tomato salad work wonders for adding cool, crunchy complements to the warm, spiced meat. Don’t be afraid to invite dips and pickles to the party—the more, the merrier!
Creative Ways to Present
Turn weeknight dinner into a full-on feast by serving Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs as part of a build-your-own wrap bar. Fill bowls with chopped veggies, sauces, and mini pitas so everyone can customize their kebab experience. Or, skewer them onto small sticks for a fun, bite-sized appetizer spread!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra kebabs (lucky you!), simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make an easy, satisfying lunch the next day, and the flavor only gets better as the spices mingle.
Freezing
To keep Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs on hand for future cravings, place the uncooked (or cooked) kebabs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterwards, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container—just thaw and grill when you’re ready for a taste of the Middle East.
Reheating
Gently reheat your kebabs in a warm oven (around 300°F) or on a skillet over medium heat. If you’re reheating from frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight first for best results. Aim for gentle heat to keep them juicy and tender.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While beef and lamb are traditional, you can use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter twist. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may need a tablespoon of olive oil to keep everything moist and flavorful.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No grill? No problem at all! These kebabs can be broiled in your oven or baked at 400°F for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll still enjoy all the delicious flavors and a beautifully browned exterior.
How do I keep the kebabs from falling apart?
The key is to finely mince your onion and squeeze out any excess liquid, then mix just until combined. Chilling the shaped kebabs before grilling also helps them hold together wonderfully on the skewer.
Are Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs spicy?
They have a flavor-forward spice blend, but you can dial the heat up or down! Just adjust the cayenne (or leave it out entirely) if you prefer things milder, or add a pinch more for extra kick.
What’s the best way to serve these kebabs for a crowd?
Set up a build-your-own kebab platter with pita, plenty of sauces, and bowls of fresh veggies. It’s festive, interactive, and makes everyone feel like they’re at a Middle Eastern street market!
Final Thoughts
These Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are pure joy on a stick—packed with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress. Gather your friends or family, fire up the grill, and savor a dish that’s both classic and endlessly customizable. Give it a try and bring a little adventure to your dinner table tonight!
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Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 kebabs 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the flavors of the Middle East with these juicy and aromatic Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs. Made with a blend of ground beef or lamb, fragrant spices, and fresh herbs, these grilled kebabs are perfect for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
- ½ onion (grated or finely minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint (chopped, optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, mint (if using), cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands.
- Shape Kebabs: Divide the mixture into 6–8 portions and shape each around a skewer into a long, oval kebab shape, pressing firmly to secure.
- Chill: Place on a tray and chill for 15–30 minutes.
- Grill: Preheat a grill and cook the kofta kebabs for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and charred.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with pita, hummus, tzatziki, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture.
- You can also bake the kebabs in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15–20 minutes if grilling isn’t an option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kebab
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
