Sensational Beef Kofta
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Ever fancied a trip to the Middle East without leaving your kitchen? Do you like spiced meat skewers? Well, this beef kofta recipe is your passport! Honestly, it's one of my go-to ground beef recipes when I want something flavourful and satisfying.
Kofta Uncovered: What's the Big Deal?
Kofta, in its many forms, is a staple across the Middle East and beyond. It is super versatile. This mediterranean beef recipes version brings together aromatic spices and fresh herbs.
The recipe takes about an hour total, including chilling time. It makes about 4-6 servings.
Why You'll Love This Kofta
This beef kofta recipe isn't just tasty. It is packed with protein and flavour. It is also relatively easy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.
Honestly? These spiced meat skewers are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. It's an easy grilling recipes , too! It is also great baked kofta recipe .
Let's dive into those delicious ingredients, shall we?
Ingredients & Equipment
So, you wanna nail this beef kofta recipe ? Awesome! Getting the right ingredients and gear makes all the difference.
Honestly, with ground beef recipes , especially middle eastern recipes like this one, quality ingredients truly shine. Trust me, your tastebuds will thank you!
Main Ingredients for your Kofta Kebab
Alright, let's break down the star players. We're talkin' 1.5 lbs (680g) of ground beef . Aim for an 80/20 blend.
Trust me, a bit of fat adds flavour and keeps them juicy. You will need 1 medium onion (finely chopped, about 1 cup ) and 2-3 cloves of minced garlic .
Don't forget 1/2 cup of fresh parsley and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro , both finely chopped. Then add 1 large egg , and 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs .
Panko is my fave for texture but use what you have! Finish it off with 2 tablespoons olive oil .
Now, for the spices! You'll need 1 tablespoon ground cumin , 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or smoked), 1 teaspoon ground coriander , and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper .
Adjust the cayenne for heat! Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper .
Seasoning Notes to spice up your Spiced Meat Skewers
Cumin, coriander, and paprika? That's the magic trio, baby. They bring that warm, earthy vibe we all love in mediterranean beef recipes .
Don't skip 'em! A touch of cayenne gives it a kick, but you can always dial it up or down.
Garlic and herbs are crucial for flavour. If you're out of fresh herbs, dried will do in a pinch! Just use half the amount.
A little tip from yours truly, sometimes I add a pinch of allspice to my lamb kofta recipe . It adds such a warm note to the beef kofta.
Equipment Needed
No fancy gadgets needed here, folks. A large mixing bowl is essential. And a cutting board. You'll need a chef's knife, too.
Optional: a garlic press! For cooking, you'll need a grill, baking sheet, or skillet. Grab a meat thermometer, too, for peace of mind!
For grilling, remember to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning.
If you don't have skewers, you can shape them into patties! Easy peasy, right? This beef kofta recipe can be a beef recipes easy treat anyday.
Also it is also delicious as a kofta with yogurt sauce ,
So, that's it! Nothing too crazy, right? Let's get cooking!
Sensational Beef Kofta: A Middle Eastern Delight
Fancy a trip to the Middle East without the airfare? This beef kofta recipe is your ticket! These spiced meat skewers are bursting with flavour.
Think herbs, aromatics, and a little kick. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying! They're like kebab's cooler, more flavourful cousin.
Honestly, ground beef recipes don't get much better than this.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place is Key!
First, get organized! Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2-3 cloves of garlic. Chop 1/2 cup fresh parsley and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro.
We’re talking fine, people! It's like prepping for a painting. Having everything ready will make cooking so much smoother. This middle eastern recipes is gonna be awesome.
Safety Reminder: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Nobody wants burnt skewers!
Unleash the Kofta Magic: step-by-step
Time to get cooking! These instructions make it a piece of cake, even if you're not a pro:
- In a large bowl, mix 1.5 lbs ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, 1 lightly beaten egg, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon cumin, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon coriander, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Use your hands. Really get in there and combine everything. But don't overmix! Overmixing makes for tough kofta kebab .
- Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavours get to know each other.
- Divide the mixture. Shape into oblongs around skewers, or form into patties.
- Cook time! Grill over medium heat for 10- 15 minutes . Or bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 15- 20 minutes. Pan-fry in olive oil over medium heat for 10- 15 minutes .
- Use a meat thermometer. Make sure the internal temperature hits 160° F ( 71° C) .
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Kofta Pro Tips (Shhh!)
- Don't overmix the beef! Handle gently.
- Chilling is key! It helps the kofta hold its shape.
- You can make the beef kofta recipe mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This beef recipes easy to make!
Honestly, this beef kofta recipe is a winner. It's delicious and fun to make. Serve it with pita bread, kofta with yogurt sauce , or a fresh salad.
You won't regret it. Try a baked kofta recipe for an easier cleanup. Happy cooking! These mediterranean beef recipes are a game changer.
Recipe Notes for Your Sensational Beef Kofta Recipe
Alright, before you dive headfirst into this beef kofta recipe , let's chat about some essential deets. Think of these as my little whispers of wisdom! These tips will help you rock this ground beef recipes and turn out an awesome kofta kebab .
Serving Like a Pro
Okay, so you've slaved away, now it's time to show it off ! Presentation is everything, right? Think about serving these beauties on a platter with a dollop of kofta with yogurt sauce , some fresh mint, and a sprinkle of paprika.
Gorgeous!
Serve the beef kofta recipe inside some warm pita bread with all the fixings. I’m talking hummus, tzatziki, and a simple salad.
Trust me, this is a win. A side of rice pilaf also pairs beautifully. If you want something refreshing, a Fattoush salad is the way to go.
Storage Secrets
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Simply pop your cooked beef kofta into an airtight container. They'll happily chill in the fridge for up to 3 days .
To reheat, just pop them in the microwave, oven, or skillet until they're heated through.
Want to freeze them for a later date? No problem! Wrap them individually in cling film before freezing. They'll keep for up to 2 months .
When you're ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the fridge. Then reheat like normal.
Remix It, Baby!
Fancy a change? Instead of beef, try a lamb kofta recipe . Ground lamb gives a richer flavor. You can also add a pinch of chili flakes or more cayenne if you love spice.
Need a lighter version? Consider using ground chicken, but remember, it's not as traditional.
Swapping out fresh herbs for dried ones? Just halve the amount! For example, if the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, use 1/8 cup of dried parsley.
Nutrition Lowdown
Each serving of these spiced meat skewers packs around 350 calories. You also get a whopping 30g of protein. That's a lot of good stuff!.
You'll also find 25g of fat and 5g of carbs. This is just an estimate though.
Enjoy this beef recipes easy with confidence, knowing you're feeding your body something truly delicious.
Now, go forth and make some mediterranean beef recipes magic! Seriously, this baked kofta recipe will be a hit. And hey, if you mess it up, just remember: even Jamie Oliver has kitchen fails!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to stop my beef kofta from falling apart?
Nobody wants a culinary catastrophe! Chilling the beef mixture for at least 30 minutes is absolutely key. This allows the proteins to bind and the mixture to firm up. Also, don't overmix it like when you're making a Victoria sponge, overworking the mixture results in a tougher texture, which can make the kofta crumbly.
Can I make this beef kofta recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the beef mixture, form the kofta, and store them in the fridge (covered) for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked kofta. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for longer storage.
Just like batch cooking Bolognese, this is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
I don't have a grill. What other cooking methods can I use for this beef kofta recipe?
No grill? No problem! You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or pan-fry them in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
Ensure you are reaching the safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure you have safe food, Just like choosing between the Tube or the bus, it's all about what works best for you!
How can I make my beef kofta more flavorful?
Flavor is everything! Don't be shy with the herbs and spices. Fresh parsley and cilantro are essential, and a good balance of cumin, paprika, and coriander adds depth. Like a good curry, you can fry a small piece of the beef mixture before forming all of the koftas and taste it, adding more seasoning as necessary to get the flavor just right.
Is this beef kofta recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
Relatively speaking, yes! Using leaner ground beef can reduce the fat content. Serving the kofta with plenty of fresh vegetables, like in a salad or pita wrap, increases the nutritional value. Consider this, like a roast dinner, while satisfying, it's important to have a healthy balance of nutrients alongside it.
Sensational Beef Kofta
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |