Middle Eastern Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

Name: Middle Eastern Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80% lean); 1 medium onion, finely grated; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 pita breads or wraps; 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat); 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 tbsp dill or mint (optional)

Published: June 20, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Middle Eastern Beef Kofta Kebabs are easy to prepare and deliver mouthwatering flavors in every bite
Their vibrant colors make them visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough to enjoy in wraps or salads
Plus, the tzatziki adds a refreshing twist that everyone loves!

Everyone at the last gathering couldn’t stop raving about how tender and flavorful the kebabs were! For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan chickpea couscous recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use high-quality ground beef with 80% lean meat for the best flavor and juiciness.
Onion: Finely grated onion adds moisture and sweetness; don’t skip this step!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley gives freshness; opt for bright green leaves without wilting. fresh salad with feta.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Paprika): These spices create depth; use fresh ones for maximum flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Pita Bread or Wraps: Serve these kebabs in warm pita bread for an authentic experience.

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

Greek Yogurt: A thick yogurt base makes the sauce creamy; choose full-fat for richness.
Cucumber: Grate and squeeze out excess water for a crisp texture in your tzatziki.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds punch; adjust according to your love for garlic!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the sauce; bottled juice won’t cut it here.
Dill or Mint (optional): Choose either herb based on your preference for added freshness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix by hand until just combined—don’t overwork it!

Shape into Kebabs: Take small handfuls of the mixture and form into elongated shapes around skewers. Aim for even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.

Preheat Your Grill or Oven: If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. For an oven option, set it to broil at 500°F (260°C).

Cook the Kebabs : Place skewers on the grill or under the broiler. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until browned and cooked through—look for that beautiful caramelization!

Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce : In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber (squeeze out excess moisture), minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and optional herbs. Stir well until creamy.

Serve and Enjoy!: Serve kebabs hot with warm pita bread or wraps accompanied by tzatziki sauce. Gather your friends around—everyone will want to dig in!

These Middle Eastern Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki are not just meals; they’re culinary adventures waiting to be shared with loved ones. low-carb zucchini bagels Enjoy every bite as laughter fills your kitchen!

You Must Know

The key to juicy Middle Eastern Beef Kofta Kebabs lies in mixing the spices well and not overworking the meat
A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth, while fresh herbs brighten the flavor
Perfect for grilling, they will make your backyard barbecue memorable!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the beef kofta for at least an hour. Shape them into kebabs and grill on high heat for juicy results. Don’t forget to prepare your tzatziki sauce while they cook.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef with lamb or chicken for a different flavor. Adding chopped mint or parsley can also elevate your kebab experience. Experiment with spices to create a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave on low power or gently warm on a skillet to maintain juiciness without drying them out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use day-old bread for a better texture in your kofta mix; it absorbs moisture nicely
Always allow kebabs to rest before serving so juices redistribute evenly
Skewering them helps with even cooking and makes them easier to handle on the grill

I remember the first time I made Middle Eastern Beef Kofta Kebabs for my friends. They devoured them, asking for seconds and thirds, and someone even suggested I start a food truck!

FAQ

How do I know when my kofta is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Can I prepare kofta ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before cooking.

What should I serve with kofta kebabs?

Serve them with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.

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