Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki
Beef kofta kebabs, tender spiced meatballs threaded on skewers, are a classic Middle Eastern delight. Grilled to perfection and served with cooling, creamy tzatziki, they make a flavorful and satisfying meal. This recipe combines bold spices with fresh herbs for a truly unforgettable taste.
Ingredients:
For the Kofta Kebabs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking Guide:
- Prepare the Kofta: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Form the Kebabs: Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Thread each portion onto a soaked wooden skewer, shaping them into elongated meatballs.
- Grill the Kebabs: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kebabs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Make the Tzatziki: In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the kofta mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- To prevent the kebabs from sticking to the grill, lightly oil the skewers before threading the meat.
- Serve the kebabs with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a generous dollop of tzatziki.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with ground chickpeas or lentils.
Enjoy your homemade Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki!