Grilled kofta skewers served with tahini sauce and fresh parsley.
If you’re craving a juicy, spiced meat dish packed with herbs and flavor, look no further than this traditional kofta recipe. Kofta, popular in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisines, is made with ground meat, onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. Whether grilled, pan-fried, or baked, kofta is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make at home.
In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare an authentic kofta recipe, tips for perfect texture, and serving suggestions to impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious weeknight meal.
What Is Kofta?
Kofta refers to meatballs or meat logs made from ground beef, lamb, or a combination of the two. Traditionally shaped by hand or onto skewers, kofta is seasoned with ingredients like cumin, coriander, parsley, and garlic. Depending on the region, it can be cooked in a tomato-based sauce, grilled over an open flame, or baked in the oven.
Ingredients for the Best Kofta Recipe
To create the perfect kofta, it all starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Kofta:
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500g (1 lb) ground beef or lamb (or a mix)
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1 small onion, finely grated or minced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp ground coriander
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1/2 tsp cinnamon
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1/2 tsp allspice
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for juicier texture)
Optional for Serving:
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Pita bread or flatbread
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Tzatziki or tahini sauce
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Chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion
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Rice or couscous
Step-by-Step Kofta Recipe Instructions
Kofta mixture being hand-formed before grilling.
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, and all spices. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the mixture is well blended. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the kofta tough.
Pro Tip: Chill the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps firm it up, making shaping easier.
2. Shape the Kofta
Divide the mixture into equal portions. You can shape the kofta into logs or oval-shaped patties. If using skewers, mold the meat mixture around metal or soaked wooden skewers.
3. Cook the Kofta
You can cook the kofta in several ways:
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Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the kofta for 3–4 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
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Pan-Fry: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook koftas until browned on all sides and cooked through.
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Oven-Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place koftas on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 20–25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Image: Kofta served with basmati rice, salad, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Serve your homemade kofta hot with warm pita, a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce, and a side of fresh salad or rice. It also pairs wonderfully with hummus or baba ganoush for a full Mediterranean spread.
Looking for a low-carb option? Serve kofta over a bed of greens or wrapped in lettuce leaves with pickled onions.
Tips for a Perfect Kofta Every Time
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Use ground lamb for richer flavor, or mix with beef for a balanced taste.
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Grating the onion helps it blend seamlessly into the meat and adds moisture.
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Don’t skip the herbs. Fresh parsley or cilantro adds brightness.
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Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes if grilling to prevent burning.
Variations on the Classic Kofta Recipe
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Chicken Kofta: Swap beef or lamb for ground chicken and add a bit of yogurt to keep it moist.
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Vegetarian Kofta: Use mashed chickpeas or lentils with breadcrumbs and spices.
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Saucy Kofta: Simmer cooked koftas in a tomato or yogurt-based sauce for a heartier dish.
Final Thoughts
With just a few pantry spices and fresh herbs, this kofta recipe brings bold, comforting flavors to your table. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or planning a BBQ, kofta is a versatile dish that’s easy to customize and always satisfying.
Try it today, and bring a taste of the Middle East into your home kitchen!
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Learn how to make an authentic kofta recipe with ground beef or lamb, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs. Perfect for grilling, frying, or baking!
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