19+ Middle East Kofta Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 11, 2024
Kofta is a popular dish in the Middle East, and for good reason. This flavorful and savory dish is a staple at many gatherings and events, and it's no surprise why. Made with a combination of ground meat, spices, and herbs, kofta is a versatile and delicious dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you're a fan of lamb, beef, or even vegetarian options, there's a kofta recipe for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Middle East kofta recipe and learn how to make this delicious dish at home.
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Garlic Cloves, Parsley, Ground Beef
If you're a fan of flavorful and juicy grilled meats, then you have to try this Middle Eastern staple - kofta kebab. Made with a mix of ground meat, onions, and spices, these kebabs are perfect for summer BBQs or even as a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, they pair perfectly with a cold beer can chicken.
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Grilled Ground Lamb Kofta Kebab
Main Ingredients: Onion, Garlic, Fresh Parsley, Fresh Dill, Cumin, Sea
For a twist on the traditional beef or chicken kofta, try using ground lamb in this recipe. The rich flavor of lamb is enhanced by the addition of Middle Eastern spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for a cool and creamy contrast to the bold flavors of the kofta.
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Middle Eastern Beef Shish Kebab
Main Ingredients: Beef, Olive Oil, White Vinegar, Cumin, Coriander
If you're looking for a heartier version of the kofta kebab, try making beef shish kebabs. Simply skewer cubes of beef with onions and bell peppers, then grill to perfection. Serve with a side of warm pita bread and a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a complete Middle Eastern meal.
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Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta
Main Ingredients: Pine Nuts, Small Yellow Onion, Garlic, Red Bell Pepper
For a more traditional take on kofta, try making these lamb koftas with a simple mix of ground lamb, onion, and spices. The key to a perfectly juicy kofta is to not overmix the meat, so be sure to gently combine the ingredients before forming into kebabs and grilling.
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Middle Eastern Lamb Kofta Balls
Main Ingredients: Ground Lamb, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Parsley, Ground
If you're looking for a bite-sized version of the classic kofta, try making these kofta balls. Made with the same flavorful mix of ground lamb, onion, and spices, these kofta balls are perfect for appetizers or as a topping for salads or sandwiches. Plus, they cook up in just a few minutes on the grill.
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Middle Eastern Grilled Kofta Kebabs
Main Ingredients: Minced Garlic, Ground Meat, Ground Coriander Seed
For a slightly different take on the traditional kofta, try grilling the kebabs on a flatbread instead of using skewers. This method allows for the juices from the kofta to soak into the bread, creating a delicious and flavorful base for the meat. Serve with fresh herbs, yogurt, and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
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Middle Eastern Kofta (Mini Meatloaves)
Main Ingredients: Ground Lamb, Fresh Thyme, Pepper, Salt, Eggs, Red
If you're looking for a hearty and filling meal, try making these Middle Eastern-inspired mini meatloaves. Made with ground beef, lamb, or a mix of both, these kofta-style meatloaves are packed with flavor and make for a great dinner option. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a well-balanced meal.
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Beef & Pork Kofta Kebab
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Onion, Garlic, Parsley
For a unique twist on the classic kofta, try using a mix of ground beef and pork in this recipe. The combination of these two meats creates a juicy and flavorful kebab that pairs well with the bold flavors of Middle Eastern spices. Serve with a side of rice pilaf and a cool and tangy yogurt sauce.
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Moroccan Ground Beef Kofta Kebab
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Small Yellow Onion, Garlic Cloves, Chopped
For a North African spin on the traditional kofta, try making these Moroccan-inspired kebabs. Made with a mix of ground beef, onions, and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cumin, these kofta kebabs are sure to be a hit at your next BBQ. Serve with a side of couscous and a fresh mango salsa for a burst of tropical flavor.
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Homemade Grilled Beef Kofta Kebab
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Minced Garlic, Small Onions, Chives
Why buy store-bought kofta when you can easily make your own at home? This recipe for homemade grilled beef kofta kebabs is simple and easy to follow, and the end result is a delicious and flavorful meal. Serve with a side of hummus and warm pita bread for a complete Middle Eastern experience.
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Middle Eastern Chicken Kebabs
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk Greek Yogurt, Olive Oil, Paprika, Cumin
If you're not a fan of lamb or beef, don't worry - you can still enjoy the flavors of kofta with these Middle Eastern chicken kebabs. Made with a mix of ground chicken, onions, and spices, these kebabs are light, flavorful, and perfect for a summer cookout. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables and a refreshing mint yogurt sauce.
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Middle Eastern Pita Bread
Main Ingredients: Yeast, Warm Water, Granulated Sugar, All Purpose Flour
No Middle Eastern meal is complete without a side of warm and fluffy pita bread. And the best part? You can easily make your own at home! This recipe for homemade pita bread is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Serve freshly baked pita bread with your choice of dips or fillings, such as hummus, falafel, or kofta kebabs.
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Spicy Minced Lamb Kofta Kebab (Giaourtlou)
Main Ingredients: Lamb, Mince Beef, Red Onion, Garlic, Olive Oil, Dried
This Greek-inspired kofta kebab, also known as giaourtlou, is made with minced lamb, onion, and spices like oregano and red pepper flakes. The addition of feta cheese adds a tangy and salty element to the dish, making it a unique and delicious option for a summer BBQ. Serve with a side of Greek salad and a cold beer can chicken for the ultimate Greek feast.
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One Pot Middle Eastern Chicken and Rice
Main Ingredients: Bone In Chicken Thighs, Lemon Juice, Turmeric, Cumin
If you're looking for a one-pot meal that's packed with flavor, then this Middle Eastern chicken and rice dish is for you. Made with chicken thighs, fragrant spices, and basmati rice, this dish is a complete meal in one pot. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
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Middle Eastern Salad
Main Ingredients: Salad Dressing, English Cucumber, Onion, Tomatoes
To balance out the rich and flavorful kofta kebabs, serve them with a refreshing and light Middle Eastern salad. Made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and a lemon and olive oil dressing, this salad is a perfect side dish for any Middle Eastern meal. Plus, it's a great way to add some extra veggies to your plate.
Main Ingredients: Chick Peas, Onion, Celery, Garlic, Cumin Powder
If you're looking for a vegan or vegetarian option, try making this Middle Eastern chickpea soup. Made with simple ingredients like chickpeas, onion, and spices, this soup is hearty and flavorful. Serve with a side of pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
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The Middle Eastern Bowl
Main Ingredients: Italian Eggplant, Dried Oregano, Cherry Tomatoes, Mixed
For a fun and customizable meal, try making a Middle Eastern bowl with all your favorite ingredients. Start with a base of rice or quinoa, then add grilled kofta, vegetables, and your choice of dips and sauces. Top with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a burst of flavor in every bite.
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Tabbouleh- Middle Eastern Salad
Main Ingredients: Flat Leaf Parsley, Mint, Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber
Another classic Middle Eastern salad to add to your repertoire is tabbouleh. Made with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and a lemon and olive oil dressing, this salad is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. Serve as a side dish or add grilled kofta for a heartier meal.
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Zchoog Inspired Middle Eastern Hot Sauce on Kofta With...
Main Ingredients: Chile Peppers, Chopped Flat Leaf Parsley, Ground
No Middle Eastern meal is complete without a little heat, and this zchoog-inspired hot sauce is the perfect addition to your kofta kebabs. Made with fresh herbs, garlic, and chili peppers, this hot sauce adds a spicy kick to any dish. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover herbs you may have from making kofta kebabs.
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Middle Eastern Turkey Meatball Sheet Pan Dinner
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Red Onion, Cauliflower, Olive Oil, Ground
If you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, try making this sheet pan meal featuring Middle Eastern-inspired turkey meatballs. Made with a mix of ground turkey, spices, and breadcrumbs, these meatballs are baked alongside vegetables for a complete and flavorful meal. Serve with a side of yogurt sauce for dipping.
Ingredients for Middle East Kofta
Meat:
Ground lamb, beef, or a combination of both is the traditional choice for kofta. However, you can also use ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The amount of meat needed will depend on the number of servings you want to make.
Spices and herbs:
A key component of kofta is the blend of spices and herbs used to flavor the dish. The most common ones include cumin, coriander, paprika, and parsley. You can also add other spices like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg for a unique twist.
Onion and garlic:
Finely chopped onion and garlic add a depth of flavor to the kofta. Both are essential ingredients and should not be skipped.
Breadcrumbs or bulgur:
To help bind the kofta together and give it a slightly different texture, breadcrumbs or bulgur are often added to the mixture. Bulgur is a type of cracked wheat and is a common ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Skewers:
Kofta is traditionally shaped into long, cylindrical shapes and grilled on skewers. So, make sure you have metal or wooden skewers on hand to cook the kofta.
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, spices, herbs, onion, garlic, and breadcrumbs or bulgur. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into a long, cylindrical shape. Thread the kofta onto skewers, making sure to pack the mixture tightly.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the kofta is cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Serve the kofta hot with pita bread, hummus, and tzatziki sauce. It can also be served over a bed of rice or in a sandwich.
Conclusion
Making Middle East kofta at home is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and authentic dish that will impress your family and friends. So, next time you're craving some Middle Eastern flavors, give this kofta recipe a try and enjoy a taste of the Middle East in your own kitchen.