If you love flavorful grilled meat, this Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe is perfect. Kofta kebabs are juicy, spiced meat skewers popular across the Middle East. They are easy to make at home and taste amazing.
Ground meat mixed with herbs and spices gives a rich and savory flavor. You can serve them with rice, flatbreads or fresh salad. This recipe is simple, quick and perfect for family dinners or parties.
If you want to know how to make Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs easily, this guide will show step-by-step instructions and all the ingredients you need.
My Experience With This Recipe
I tried making these kofta kebabs last weekend. They turned out tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The spices are balanced and aromatic. Grilling them gave a nice smoky touch.
My family loved the dish with garlic yogurt sauce. Making Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs at home is easier than ordering from a restaurant. You control the seasoning and meat quality. I also enjoyed shaping the kofta onto skewers. It’s a fun and satisfying cooking experience.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large mixing bowl
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or tongs
Ingredients You Need for Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Meat
Place ground meat in a large bowl. Add onion, garlic and parsley. Mix gently with your hands. - Add Spices
Add cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, salt and pepper. Mix until spices are evenly combined. - Shape the Kofta
Divide meat into 6–8 portions. Roll each portion into a log around the skewer, pressing gently. - Preheat the Grill
Heat grill or pan on medium-high. Brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. - Grill the Kofta
Place skewers on the grill. Cook 6–8 minutes per side until fully browned and cooked through. - Check for Doneness
Cut one kofta to ensure meat is cooked. Juices should run clear, not pink. - Serve the Kofta
Remove skewers from grill. Serve hot with rice, flatbreads or salad. Add yogurt sauce if desired.
Tips to Make the Best Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
- Use a mix of beef and lamb for richer flavor.
- Keep meat mixture cold before shaping for better texture.
- Do not overmix meat to avoid dense kofta.
- Pre-soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- Grill over medium heat to cook evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the kofta, which makes it dry.
- Adding too many spices that overpower the meat.
- Using lean meat only; a little fat keeps kofta juicy.
- Skipping parsley or onions, which add moisture and flavor.
- Pressing meat too hard on skewers; kofta can fall apart.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with warm flatbreads or basmati rice. Add a side of fresh salad, like cucumber and tomato.
Drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce for extra flavor. You can also serve with pickles, tahini or hummus. These kebabs make a great party appetizer or main course for family meals.
Variations You Can Try
- Chicken or turkey instead of beef or lamb.
- Add chopped mint for fresh flavor.
- Mix in grated zucchini for extra moisture.
- Serve with spicy harissa sauce.
- Wrap in pita bread with veggies for a sandwich style.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftover kofta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.
- Avoid microwaving; it may dry the meat.
- You can freeze uncooked kofta for up to 1 month.
- Thaw in the fridge before grilling or baking.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Health Benefits
Kofta kebabs are high in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. Fresh herbs like parsley add vitamins and antioxidants. Using lean meat reduces saturated fat.
Cooking on a grill allows fat to drip, making it healthier than frying. Spices like cumin and coriander aid digestion and boost metabolism. Paired with vegetables and yogurt sauce, this meal is nutritious, balanced and satisfying.
Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil for grilling
Instructions
Prepare the Meat
- Place ground meat in a large bowl. Add onion, garlic, and parsley. Mix gently with your hands.
Add Spices
- Add cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, cayenne, salt and pepper. Mix until spices are evenly combined.
Shape the Kofta
- Divide meat into 6–8 portions. Roll each portion into a log around the skewer, pressing gently.
Preheat the Grill
- Heat grill or pan on medium-high. Brush lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the Kofta
- Place skewers on the grill. Cook 6–8 minutes per side until fully browned and cooked through.
Check for Doneness
- Cut one kofta to ensure meat is cooked. Juices should run clear, not pink.
Serve the Kofta
- Remove skewers from grill. Serve hot with rice, flatbreads or salad. Add yogurt sauce if desired.
Notes
- Use a mix of beef and lamb for richer flavor.
- Keep meat mixture cold before shaping for better texture.
- Do not overmix meat to avoid dense kofta.
- Pre-soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- Grill over medium heat to cook evenly.
FAQs about Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
Q1: Can I bake the kofta instead of grilling?
Yes, bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked and slightly browned.
Q2: Can I use only beef or lamb?
Absolutely! Both work well. A mix gives more flavor and juiciness.
Q3: How can I make it spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper or chili flakes to taste. Serve with a spicy sauce.
Q4: Can I prepare kofta in advance?
Yes, shape the kofta and refrigerate for a few hours before grilling.
Final Thoughts
This Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs Recipe is easy, flavorful and perfect for home cooking. Juicy, spiced meat with fresh herbs creates a classic taste. Grilled to perfection, these kebabs are healthy and satisfying.
Serve with rice, flatbreads, or salad for a full meal. Making them at home is simple, fun and impressive. Try this recipe today and enjoy authentic Middle Eastern flavors with your family and friends.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!