Beef Kofta Kebabs Yogurt Sauce (Printable View)

Spiced beef skewers grilled and paired with a fresh, herbed yogurt sauce and citrus accents.

# Ingredient List:

→ Kofta Kebabs

01 - 1.1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
02 - 1 small onion, finely grated
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
05 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
06 - 1 tsp ground cumin
07 - 1 tsp ground coriander
08 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
09 - 1/2 tsp ground allspice
10 - 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
11 - 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
12 - 1 tsp salt
13 - 1/2 tsp black pepper
14 - 1 tbsp olive oil plus extra for grilling

→ Yogurt Sauce

15 - 1 cup Greek yogurt
16 - 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
17 - 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
18 - 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
19 - 1 tbsp lemon juice
20 - 1/2 tsp salt
21 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ To Serve

22 - Lemon wedges
23 - Sliced red onion
24 - Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, mix ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, black pepper, and olive oil until evenly combined without overworking.
02 - Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each around a skewer into a long oval approximately 5 inches in length.
03 - Refrigerate the assembled kebabs for 15 minutes to help maintain their shape during cooking.
04 - In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped mint, dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and chill until serving time.
05 - Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
06 - Cook the kebabs for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until well browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
07 - Plate the kofta kebabs hot, accompanied by the yogurt sauce, lemon wedges, sliced red onion, and fresh herbs.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • These kebabs are bursting with spices that feel like a whispered secret between friends.
  • The creamy, fresh yogurt sauce balances the smoky grilled meat perfectly, making every bite a delight.
02 -
  • Don&t overwork the meat or the kebabs get dense instead of tender and juicy.
  • Chilling the shaped kebabs is key to helping them keep their shape on the grill and preventing flare-ups.
03 -
  • Adding a bit of finely grated onion keeps the kebabs moist while adding subtle sweetness.
  • Using a mix of parsley and cilantro gives the flavor a complex, fresh lift that changes everything.