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Grilled Beef Kofta Kebabs

Juicy grilled skewers of spiced ground beef, served with refreshing tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Tzatziki Sauce
  • 1 large English cucumber Sliced and grated
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt For creaminess
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Adds richness
  • 2 cloves minced garlic For flavor
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice Adds brightness
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar Enhances flavor
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh dill For herbal note
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a slight kick
For the Beef Kofta
  • 1 pound 85% ground beef The main protein
  • 1 medium grated yellow onion For moisture and flavor
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley Adds freshness
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint Provides a refreshing touch
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt Essential for seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds warmth
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander Citrusy note
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Provides depth
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adds heat
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Warm spice note
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon A subtle sweetness
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves Enhances complexity
  • 10 pieces wooden skewers For grilling
For Serving
  • 4 pieces naan or pita bread Base for the kebabs
  • 1 cup Roma tomatoes Fresh topping
  • 1 cup diced cucumber For crunch
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion For sharpness
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley For garnish
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For brushing naan

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the cucumber lengthwise and scrape out seeds; grate into a bowl and press to remove excess liquid.
  2. Combine the grated cucumber with yogurt, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, white vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Cooking
  1. Immerse wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  2. In a small bowl, combine salt, cumin, coriander, black pepper, red pepper flakes, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
  3. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, minced garlic, grated onion, parsley, mint, and the spice mixture.
  4. Shape the beef mixture into logs and skewer them onto the soaked skewers. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high temperature.
  6. Cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely charred.
Serving
  1. Brush naan with olive oil and grill for 4-5 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
  2. Spread tzatziki on grilled naan, then top with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grilled kebabs. Sprinkle additional parsley before serving.

Notes

Great for meal prep or quick dinners. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. These kebabs can be stored in the fridge for up to two days before grilling.