Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are a delightful combination of spices and ground meat that brings a taste of the Middle East right to your dining table. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making them ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or casual barbecues. With their savory flavors and appealing presentation, they make a standout dish that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these kebabs ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices infuses the meat with rich flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them with rice, flatbread, or a fresh salad for a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean ground beef or lamb, these kebabs are packed with protein while being low in carbs.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor cooking, they can be easily grilled or broiled, bringing out the best in their flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs efficiently, ensure you have the right tools on hand. This will help streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Grater
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for shaping the kebabs and holding them together during cooking.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides high heat necessary for achieving that perfect char and flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy mixing of ingredients without making a mess.
• Grater: Helps finely shred onions for better integration into the meat mixture.

Ingredients

Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are flavorful ground meat skewers seasoned with warm spices and herbs. Grilled or broiled to perfection, they’re a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and perfect served with rice, flatbread, or a fresh salad.

For the Meat Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
• 1 small onion, grated
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

For the Spices

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Skewering

• Skewers (wooden or metal)

How to Make Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl:
* Combine the ground meat with grated onion, minced garlic, fresh herbs, and all spices.
* Mix well until everything is fully combined.

Step 3: Shape the Kebabs

Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions.
* Mold each portion onto a skewer, shaping it into an elongated oval form.

Step 4: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Preheat your grill, grill pan, or broiler over medium-high heat.
* Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cook the Kebabs

Place the kebabs on the heated surface:
* Cook for about 10–12 minutes.
* Turn occasionally until browned and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve hot with rice, flatbread, or a side of tahini or yogurt sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs!

How to Serve Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

• Flavored Rice: Serve the kebabs over a bed of seasoned rice, such as saffron or turmeric rice, to complement the spices in the kebabs.
• Rice Pilaf: Pair with a fragrant rice pilaf mixed with nuts and dried fruits for added texture and sweetness.

In Flatbreads

• Pita Bread: Wrap the kofta kebabs in soft pita bread with fresh vegetables and sauces for a delicious handheld meal.
• Lavash: Use lavash to create a wrap filled with kebabs, crisp lettuce, and tangy pickles for a refreshing bite.

With Salads

• Tabbouleh Salad: Serve alongside tabbouleh, a refreshing parsley salad that brightens up the rich flavors of the kebabs.
• Fattoush Salad: A mix of greens and crispy pita chips tossed in a zesty dressing pairs well with the savory kebabs.

Dipping Sauces

• Tahini Sauce: Drizzle tahini sauce over the kebabs for a nutty flavor.
• Yogurt Sauce: A cooling yogurt sauce with herbs can balance the spices beautifully.

How to Perfect Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

Perfecting your Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your kebabs turn out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will elevate the flavor of your koftas. Always choose vibrant parsley and cilantro.
• Proper Meat Handling: Don’t overwork the meat mixture; mix just until combined to keep your kebabs tender.
• Skewer Technique: Ensure that you mold the meat tightly onto the skewers so they hold their shape during cooking.
• Preheat Cooking Surface: Make sure your grill or broiler is hot before adding the kebabs; this helps achieve a nice char on the outside.
• Cook Evenly: Turn your kebabs regularly while cooking to ensure they brown evenly all around.
• Rest Before Serving: Let cooked kebabs rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with your Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A cool, creamy salad that complements spicy flavors and adds freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make a nutritious side.
3. Hummus: This classic chickpea dip is perfect for spreading on bread or using as a creamy accompaniment.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These flavorful rolls add an interesting texture and taste contrast to the meal.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled and brushed with herb butter provides a deliciously charred side.
6. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad combining chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs dressed lightly with lemon juice.
7. Baba Ganoush: A smoky eggplant dip that complements the flavors of kofta beautifully while offering variety in dips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Bold ingredients: Not using fresh herbs and spices can dull the flavor. Always opt for fresh parsley, cilantro, and high-quality spices.
• Bold mixing: Over-mixing the meat mixture can lead to tough kebabs. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Bold skewering: Failing to mold the meat evenly onto the skewers can result in uneven cooking. Shape each kebab uniformly for consistent grilling.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking at too low a heat will dry out the kebabs. Ensure your grill or broiler is preheated to medium-high for optimal results.
• Bold resting time: Skipping the resting period after cooking can make the kebabs less juicy. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

• Place kebabs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook the kebabs for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs?

Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are ground meat skewers seasoned with various spices and herbs, grilled or broiled until perfectly cooked.

Can I use different meats in Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs?

Yes! You can use beef, lamb, turkey, or a combination of these meats based on your preference.

How do I ensure my Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs don’t fall apart?

Make sure to mix your ingredients gently and mold them evenly onto the skewers. Cooking them at medium-high heat also helps maintain their shape.

What sides go well with Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs?

These kebabs pair beautifully with rice, flatbread, salads, or tahini sauce for dipping.

Final Thoughts

Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adjusting spices or adding vegetables to your sides. Try this recipe today and enjoy an authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 skewers 1x

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Description

Enjoy flavorful Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with fresh herbs and spices. Try this easy recipe today for a delicious meal!

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, grated
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

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Instructions

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat with grated onion, minced garlic, fresh herbs, and all spices. Mix until fully combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions and mold each onto a skewer into an elongated oval shape.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat; lightly oil to prevent sticking.
5. Cook the kebabs for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with rice, flatbread, or dipping sauces.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 85g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg