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Crispy grilled beef kofta skewers with charred grill marks, served on a white ceramic plate garnished with fresh parsley and a side of creamy garlic yogurt sauce in a small bowl. The kofta has a golden-brown exterior with a slight char, highlighting the grill's smoky flavor, while the yogurt sauce appears smooth and rich, dotted with minced garlic and herbs.

Authentic Middle Eastern Beef Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

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Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with this Authentic Middle Eastern Beef Kofta recipe paired with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. Perfect for a hearty dinner or impressive gathering, this dish features tender spiced beef meatballs complemented by a tangy, garlic-infused yogurt dip. Ideal for lovers of flavorful and easy-to-make Middle Eastern recipes.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh mint or additional parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Let sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
  2. Divide the beef mixture into equal portions and shape each into elongated ovals or balls, wetting hands slightly for easier shaping.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or grill for smoky flavor.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped mint or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Letting the beef mixture rest in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld and results in better-quality kofta.
  • Shape the kofta with wet hands for smooth, uniform balls or ovals.
  • For a smoky flavor, grilling is highly recommended.
  • Serve the garlic yogurt sauce on the side or drizzled over the kofta for added flavor.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Author: Serena Miller
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-fry, Bake, Grill
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Gluten-Free (without bread sides)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 kofta with sauce
  • Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Find it online: https://www.serenarecipes.com/authentic-middle-eastern-beef-kofta-with-garlic-yogurt-sauce/