If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying summer meal, look no further than this American-style Kofta Kebab recipe! Inspired by the popular Middle Eastern dish, this version is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for grilling season. My love for Kofta Kebab started during a summer barbecue at my grandmother’s house. She always believed that the secret to the best kebabs was in the spices and fresh herbs. Today, I’m sharing her perfected recipe, with a slight American twist that makes it a must-try for your family.
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- ✅ Bursting with Flavor: A harmonious blend of spices, herbs, and juicy ground meat.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Perfect for Summer Grilling: These kebabs are ideal for outdoor cooking and enjoying with loved ones
- ✅ Family-Friendly: Made to serve the whole family with mouth-watering goodness.
- ✅ Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
KABAB KEFTA
Description
This American-style Kofta Kebab Recipe is the ultimate summer grilling delight! Juicy, flavorful, and packed with aromatic spices, these grilled kebabs are perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Made with seasoned ground beef (or lamb) mixed with fresh herbs, garlic, and warm spices, these skewered kebabs are charred to perfection. Serve them with pita bread, fresh salad, and a refreshing garlic yogurt sauce for a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you cook them over an open flame or bake them in the oven, these Kofta Kebabs are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue!
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (or lamb for richer flavor)
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1 medium onion, finely grated
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
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2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for extra flavor)
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp ground coriander
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground black pepper
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1 tsp salt
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 750
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 6
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 22
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or lamb), grated onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, black pepper, salt, and olive oil.
Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be sticky and smooth.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the mixture easier to shape.
Step 2: Shape the Kebabs
Divide the meat mixture into equal portions (about 8-10).
With damp hands, mold each portion around a skewer, pressing the meat firmly to avoid it falling off while cooking.
Shape them into long, flat kebabs around the skewers for even cooking.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
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Arrange the kofta kebabs on a serving platter with pita bread, fresh salad, and tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce.
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Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the kebabs before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
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Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy your delicious, juicy Kofta Kebabs with your family!
Step 3: Grill the Kebabs
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
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Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
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Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally until the kebabs are cooked through and have a slight char.
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Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
💡 Tips & Tricks
For extra moisture, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt to the meat mixture.
If you prefer oven cooking, bake the kebabs at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of chili powder can give the kebabs a delightful kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What meat is best for Kofta Kebab?
You can use ground beef, lamb, or a mix of both. Traditionally, lamb is preferred for its rich flavor, but beef provides a leaner option. Mixing them results in juicy, flavorful kebabs.
2. Can I cook Kofta Kebab in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the kebabs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. For extra char, broil them for a couple of minutes before serving.
3. How do I prevent Kofta Kebabs from falling off the skewers?
To keep the kebabs from falling off:
- Make sure to chill the meat mixture for at least 30 minutes before shaping.
- Press the meat firmly around the skewers.
- Avoid flipping them too often during grilling.
5. What should I serve with Kofta Kebabs?
Kofta Kebabs go well with:
- Pita bread or flatbread.
- Fresh salad (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers).
- Tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce.
- Rice pilaf or roasted vegetables.
4. Can I freeze Kofta Kebabs?
Yes, you can freeze them! Shape the kebabs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling or baking.
6. Can I make this recipe spicy
Absolutely! Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture for a nice spicy kick. Adjust the heat to your liking.
7. How do I store leftover Kofta Kebabs?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a grill or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
💬 Have You Tried This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how your Kofta Kebab turned out! Did you make any modifications to the recipe? Share your experience in the comments below. 😊