Name: Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 500g ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 72 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with rich spices and juicy goodness, this Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender, perfectly seasoned beef koftas are packed with aromatic herbs and warm spices that come together beautifully, whether you’re grilling them outdoors or baking them in your oven. Served alongside flatbread and a cooling yogurt sauce, they make for an unforgettable meal that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Ready to make your dinner a little more exciting? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six oblong seasoned meat kebabs arranged side by side on a metal tray lined with brown parchment paper. Each kebab is skewered on a metal looped skewer, and the meat mixture looks coarse with visible herbs and spices, giving it a textured, slightly rough surface. The colors are mostly brown with green specks and small bits of red spread evenly throughout the meat. The tray sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind these Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe lies in a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From fresh herbs to warm spices, every element adds depth and character to the dish.

Ground beef: The hearty base that delivers juicy, tender meat packed with protein and flavor.
Onion, finely grated: Adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that elevates the meat mixture.
Garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
Ground cumin: Infuses a warm, earthy undertone essential to Middle Eastern flavors.
Ground coriander: Offers a light citrusy note that brightens the mix.
Paprika: Provides a delicate smokiness and vibrant color to the kofta.
Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of green for visual appeal and herbal flavor.
Salt and black pepper: The simple seasoning heroes that balance and enhance every bite.

How to Make Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Start by placing your ground beef in a large bowl. Add the finely grated onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined, making sure the spices and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the meat. This step is key to getting those bold, consistent flavors in every bite of your kofta kebabs.

Step 2: Shape the Kofta onto Skewers

Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. If you are using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during cooking. Take each portion of the beef mixture and mold it around a skewer, shaping it into an elongated oval or sausage shape. Press firmly, but gently, to keep the meat from falling apart while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Kebabs

You can either grill your kofta kebabs over medium-high heat or bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F). Grill for about 15 to 18 minutes, turning occasionally for even charring and cooking, or bake in the oven for the same amount of time until cooked through. The result should be juicy kebabs with a slightly charred exterior that locks in all that incredible flavor.

How to Serve Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For an extra layer of appeal and flavor, garnish your kofta kebabs with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. A drizzle of tangy yogurt sauce or tzatziki on top adds a refreshing contrast that perfectly complements the warm spices in the beef. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some sumac or a squeeze of lemon juice for that zesty finish that brightens up the plate.

Side Dishes

The beauty of this Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe is how versatile it is when it comes to sides. Serve them up alongside a fluffy pilaf, a crisp salad with cucumbers and tomatoes, or warm flatbreads to scoop up every bit of juicy goodness. Roasted vegetables or a simple garlic rice also pair beautifully and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re aiming to impress, try serving your kofta kebabs stacked on a platter with layers of fresh herbs, pickled onions, and dollops of creamy hummus or baba ganoush. You can also slide the kebabs inside pita pockets with lettuce and a drizzle of tahini for a quick and delicious street food vibe that your guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover kebabs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled not only preserves the flavors but makes for an easy grab-and-go lunch option that tastes just as good cold or reheated.

Freezing

For longer storage, shape your kofta mixture onto skewers but avoid cooking them first. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then cook as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftover kofta kebabs gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the texture and juiciness of the meat; reheating slowly helps keep everything moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use lamb instead of beef for this kofta?

Absolutely! Lamb offers a rich, slightly gamey flavor that works wonderfully with the spices in this recipe. Simply swap the ground beef for ground lamb and follow the same instructions.

Do I need skewers to make these koftas?

While skewers help shape and cook the koftas evenly, you can also form them into patties or oval shapes and cook them on a grill pan or skillet if you prefer.

How can I make these kebabs spicier?

To add some heat, try incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped fresh chili peppers into the meat mixture. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. Just be sure your spice blends and any accompaniments are also gluten-free.

Can I prepare the kofta mixture ahead of time?

Definitely. You can mix the ingredients a day ahead, keep the mixture covered in the refrigerator, then shape and cook the kebabs when ready to serve. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making and enjoying the Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table, thanks to its combination of spices and herbs, and is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re grilling outside on a sunny afternoon or baking indoors on a cozy evening, these koftas guarantee a deliciously memorable meal. Give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite to keep coming back to!

Flavorful Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need