Beef Kofta Kebabs Yogurt Sauce

Discovering beef kofta kebabs was like stumbling upon a delicious Middle Eastern secret tucked away in my own kitchen. The first time I grilled them, the aroma filled the air and instantly made the evening feel special.

I remember when unexpected guests arrived and I whipped up these kofta kebabs on a whim. By the time they sat down, the grill was sizzling and the table was set with smiles all around.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef: I always use an 80/20 blend for juicy, flavorful kebabs that stay tender after grilling.
• Herbs & Spices: Fresh parsley and cilantro brighten the mix, while cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and allspice add that signature Middle Eastern warmth.
• Yogurt Sauce Ingredients: Plain Greek yogurt gives the sauce creaminess, and fresh mint with a squeeze of lemon keeps it lively.
• Olive Oil: Brushing the kebabs with olive oil helps achieve that perfect golden crust without sticking.

Instructions

Mix It Up:

In a large bowl, combine all the spices, herbs, grated onion, garlic, ground beef, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly but gently to keep the koftas tender and juicy.

Shape and Skewer:

With wet hands, divide the mixture into equal portions and form long, oval logs around your skewers. The wet hands trick prevents sticking and keeps shapes neat.

Preheat the Grill:

Get your grill or grill pan hot over medium-high heat. Brushing the kebabs lightly with olive oil before grilling keeps them from drying out.

Grill Until Perfect:

Cook the kebabs for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re nicely browned outside and cooked through but still juicy.

Whip Up the Sauce:

While the kebabs cook, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, fresh mint, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and bright.

Serve and Enjoy:

Plate the kebabs with the yogurt sauce, sliced red onion, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges. The cool sauce against the warm spices is pure magic.

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This dish became more than just food the first time I made it for a celebration. The way it brought friends together over laughter and shared plates made it a cherished memory that lives on.

Keeping It Fresh

Using fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint really lifts the entire dish. If you don&t have fresh on hand, frozen won&t do the same justice here so consider growing a small herb pot in your kitchen.

When You're Missing Something

If you can't find all the spices, cumin and paprika are the essentials. The others add depth but a simpler combo will still taste wonderful, especially with that cooling yogurt sauce.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I always serve these koftas with a handful of lemon wedges and sliced red onions to add freshness. Warm pita or a crisp salad pairs beautifully and rounds out the meal.

• Remember to keep some extra yogurt sauce handy if guests like a little extra tang.
• Don't forget to soak wooden skewers before grilling to avoid any flare-ups.
• If you're serving outdoors, cover the grilled kebabs with foil to keep them warm while you finish prepping sides.

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Thanks for cooking along! I hope these kofta kebabs bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What spices enhance the beef flavor in kofta kebabs?

Cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and allspice create a warm and aromatic blend that complements the beef perfectly.

→ How should the kofta be cooked for best results?

Grilling over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, ensures a nicely browned exterior and juicy interior.

→ What ingredients make the yogurt sauce refreshing?

Fresh mint, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil combine with Greek yogurt to form a tangy and cooling sauce.

→ Can the kofta mixture be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, marinating the meat mixture for up to 2 hours in the fridge enhances the flavors before cooking.

→ Are there alternatives to grilling the kebabs?

Baking at 220°C (425°F) for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway, works well if a grill isn't available.

→ What accompaniments pair well with these beef kofta kebabs?

Sliced red onion, fresh parsley or cilantro, and lemon wedges add fresh, bright notes that balance rich meat flavors.