Kofta is a popular dish in Lebanon, made with a blend of ground meat and spices, shaped into balls or patties and then grilled or fried. It is a staple in Lebanese cuisine and is often served as a main course, accompanied by rice, vegetables, and a variety of sauces. In this article, we will share a traditional Lebanese kofta recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this delicious and easy-to-make dish.
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef Chuck, Chopped Parsley, Sun Dried Tomatoes
If you're a fan of Middle Eastern flavors, then you'll love this recipe for Kafta, also known as Lebanese beef kebabs. Made with a blend of ground beef, parsley, onions, and spices, these kebabs are full of bold and delicious flavors. The best part? They're incredibly easy to make and only require a handful of ingredients. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish.
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Baked Lebanese Lamb Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Ground Lamb, Egg, Bread Crumbs, Chopped Parsley, Mint
Looking for a new twist on traditional meatballs? Look no further than this recipe for Baked Lebanese Lamb Meatballs. Made with ground lamb, breadcrumbs, and a blend of spices, these meatballs are bursting with flavor. Plus, they're baked in the oven, making them a healthier alternative to fried meatballs. Serve them as an appetizer or as the main course, and watch as your guests rave about these tasty meatballs.
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Lebanese Lentil Salad with Garlic, Cumin, Mint, and...
Main Ingredients: Green Lentil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Chopped
This Lebanese Lentil Salad is a perfect side dish for any meal. Made with lentils, garlic, cumin, mint, and a splash of balsamic vinegar, this salad is bursting with flavor and is a healthy addition to any meal. It's also incredibly versatile, making it a great option for potlucks or picnics. And with its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, it's not only delicious but also visually appealing.
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Red Lentil Kofta
Main Ingredients: Red Lentils, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Fresh Flat Leaf
If you're looking for a vegetarian option for kofta, then look no further than this recipe for Red Lentil Kofta. Made with red lentils, onions, and a blend of spices, these kofta are just as flavorful and delicious as their meat counterparts. Plus, they're packed with protein and make for a satisfying and filling meal. Serve them with a side of tahini sauce for a truly authentic Lebanese experience.
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Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum)
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Garlic Cloves, Grapeseed Oil, Lemon Juice
This recipe for Lebanese Garlic Sauce, also known as Toum, is a must-try for garlic lovers. Made with garlic, lemon juice, and oil, this sauce has a creamy, mayonnaise-like consistency and a bold garlic flavor. It's traditionally served with grilled meats and kebabs, but it can also be used as a dipping sauce for vegetables or as a spread for sandwiches. Once you try this sauce, you'll want to put it on everything.
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Beef Kofta
Main Ingredients: Minced Beef, White Onion, Garlic, Flat Leaf Parsley
This recipe for Beef Kofta is a classic Lebanese dish that's perfect for any occasion. Made with ground beef, parsley, onions, and a blend of spices, these kofta are full of flavor and are incredibly easy to make. Serve them with pita bread, hummus, and baba ghanoush for a complete and delicious meal.
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Lebanese Beef Kofta Spiced Meatballs
Main Ingredients: White Onion, Chopped Parsley, Mint, Kosher Salt
If you're a fan of meatballs, then you have to try this recipe for Lebanese Beef Kofta Spiced Meatballs. Made with ground beef, parsley, and a blend of aromatic spices, these meatballs are incredibly flavorful and a great addition to any meal. Plus, they're baked in the oven, making them a healthier alternative to fried meatballs. Serve them with a side of rice and a tabbouleh salad for a complete Lebanese feast.
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Lebanese-Style Spicy Beef Kofta Kabobs
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Coarse Kosher Salt, Ground White Pepper
Add some heat to your kofta with this recipe for Lebanese-Style Spicy Beef Kofta Kabobs. Made with ground beef, onions, and a blend of spices, these kabobs are packed with flavor and have a nice kick of spice. They're perfect for grilling season and make a great addition to any BBQ. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the kabobs.
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Egyptian Kofta
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Lamb, Parsley, Onion, Minced
This recipe for Egyptian Kofta is a delicious and unique twist on traditional kofta. Made with a blend of ground beef and lamb, parsley, and a variety of spices, these kofta have a rich and complex flavor. They're traditionally served with rice and a tomato-based sauce, but you can also serve them with pita bread and your favorite dips for a more casual and fun meal.
Mujadara is a classic Lebanese dish made with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. It's simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. This version of Mujadara also includes ground beef, making it a heartier and more filling meal. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner and makes great leftovers for lunch the next day. Serve it with a side of yogurt for a delicious and balanced meal.
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Kofta
Main Ingredients: Minced Garlic, Red Onion, Fresh Parsley, Fresh Mint
This recipe for Kofta is a basic and versatile version that can be used for a variety of dishes. Made with ground beef, onions, and a blend of spices, this kofta can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. Serve it on its own as a main dish, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. The possibilities are endless with this delicious and easy-to-make kofta.
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Spicy Lebanese Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Russet Potatoes, Olive Oil, Sea Salt, Garlic Cloves
Spice up your potato game with this recipe for Spicy Lebanese Potatoes. Made with potatoes, garlic, and a blend of spices, these potatoes are full of flavor and have a nice kick of spice. They also make a great side dish for any meal and are a great way to add some Middle Eastern flair to your dinner table. Serve them with a side of tarator sauce for a creamy and refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the potatoes.
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Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Minced Onion, Garlic, Parsley, Ground
Tzatziki sauce is a staple in Greek cuisine, but it also pairs perfectly with Lebanese flavors. This recipe for Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce is a delicious fusion of the two cuisines. Made with ground beef, parsley, and a blend of spices, these kebabs are full of flavor and are perfectly complemented by the cool and refreshing tzatziki sauce. Serve them with a side of fattoush salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
This recipe for Lebanese Baked Chicken is a simple, yet delicious way to prepare chicken. Made with a blend of spices, lemon juice, and sumac, this chicken is flavorful and juicy. It's also incredibly easy to make and is a great option for a weeknight dinner. Serve it with a side of rice and a tabbouleh salad for a well-rounded and delicious meal.
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Lebanese Chicken Tawook
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Lemon, Garlic, Salt
Chicken Tawook is a popular dish in Lebanese cuisine and for good reason. This recipe for Lebanese Chicken Tawook is a delicious and flavorful version of the classic dish. Made with chicken, yogurt, and a blend of spices, this dish is incredibly easy to make and can be served as a main course or as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. Serve it with a side of hummus for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Lebanese Rice Pilaf
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Clarified Butter, Vermicelli Pasta, Boiling
This recipe for Lebanese Rice Pilaf is a flavorful and versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Made with fragrant basmati rice, vermicelli noodles, and a blend of spices, this rice pilaf is full of flavor and has a beautiful texture. It's a great option for entertaining and is sure to impress your guests with its unique and delicious flavors.
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Lebanese Fattoush Salad
Main Ingredients: Pita Bread, Romaine Lettuce, Tomatoes, Sliced Cucumber
Fattoush is a popular Lebanese salad made with crispy pita, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing. This recipe for Lebanese Fattoush Salad is a delicious and refreshing version of the classic dish. Made with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a variety of herbs, this salad is packed with flavor and makes a great side dish for any meal. Serve it with a side of grilled chicken or beef for a more filling meal.
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Vegan Malai Kofta
Main Ingredients: Potato, Carrot, Frozen Peas, Chickpea Flour, Cashews
If you're looking for a vegan alternative to traditional kofta, then this recipe for Vegan Malai Kofta is a must-try. Made with a blend of vegetables, tofu, and spices, these kofta are full of flavor and have a creamy texture thanks to the use of coconut milk. They're also baked in the oven, making them a healthier option than fried kofta. Serve them with a side of rice and a raita sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
This recipe for Lebanese Rice is a simple and versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Made with fragrant basmati rice and a blend of spices, this rice is flavorful and makes a great addition to any meal. It's also incredibly easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Serve it with roasted vegetables or grilled meats for a complete and delicious meal.
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Kofta Kebab
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Garlic Cloves, Parsley, Ground Beef
This recipe for Kofta Kebab is a delicious and easy way to enjoy kofta. Made with ground beef, parsley, and a blend of spices, these kebabs are full of flavor and can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce and a fattoush salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also use them as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for a quick and tasty lunch option.
The History of Lebanese Kofta
Origin
Lebanese kofta has been a part of the country's cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated from the Middle East, specifically from the Levant region, which now includes Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Israel. It is said that kofta was introduced to the region by the Ottoman Empire during their reign in the 16th century.
The Influence of Ottoman Cuisine
The Ottomans had a significant influence on Lebanese cuisine, and kofta is no exception. The name "kofta" comes from the Turkish word "köfte," which means meatball or patty. The Ottoman Empire also introduced spices such as cumin, allspice, and sumac, which are essential ingredients in Lebanese kofta.
The Evolution of Lebanese Kofta
Over the years, Lebanese kofta has evolved, with different regions and families adding their own twist to the recipe. For example, in Northern Lebanon, lamb is the preferred meat for kofta, while in the south, beef is more commonly used. Some families add pine nuts or parsley to the meat mixture, while others prefer to keep it simple with just meat and spices.
The Ingredients You Need
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The key to any good kofta is the quality of the ingredients used. For this traditional Lebanese kofta recipe, you will need:
Ground Meat
The most commonly used meat in Lebanese kofta is lamb, but you can also use beef, chicken, or a combination of meats. Make sure to use high-quality, lean meat for the best results.
Spices
The essential spices for Lebanese kofta are cumin, allspice, and sumac. You can also add other spices like paprika, black pepper, and cinnamon for extra flavor.
Onion and Garlic
Finely chopped onion and garlic are added to the meat mixture for added moisture and flavor.
Parsley
Freshly chopped parsley adds a fresh and herby taste to the kofta.
The Recipe
Now that we have covered the history and ingredients, it's time to get cooking!
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Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, and spices. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shape the Kofta
Take a handful of the meat mixture and shape it into a ball or a patty, depending on your preference. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
Step 3: Cook the Kofta
You can either grill the kofta on a skewer or fry them in a pan with some olive oil. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
You can serve the kofta with rice, pita bread, or a variety of sauces such as tahini, hummus, or tzatziki. Enjoy your delicious Lebanese kofta dish with family and friends!
In conclusion, Lebanese kofta is a delicious and versatile dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. With this traditional recipe, you can now bring a taste of Lebanon to your own kitchen. So why not give it a try and impress your loved ones with your cooking skills? Featured Keywords: Lebanese cuisine, kofta, recipe, flavors.
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