Description
Experience the authentic and vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs served with a fresh salad and warm flatbread. This wholesome, balanced dish features juicy, spiced meatballs infused with aromatic herbs and spices, paired with a crisp, tangy salad and soft flatbread, offering a delicious harmony of protein, vegetables, and carbs perfect for any meal or social gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Kofta Mixture
- 500g ground meat (lamb or beef, or a mix)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 1 cup cucumbers, chopped
- 1 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Flatbread and Garnishes
- 4 soft flatbreads (pita or lavash)
- Olive oil, for drizzling and warming flatbread
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sumac or za’atar spice (optional garnish)
- Yogurt or tahini sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat with finely chopped onions, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until all ingredients and spices are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Kofta Kebabs: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each into small cylindrical or oval kebabs using slightly wet hands to prevent sticking. This traditional shape ensures even cooking on skewers or grill pans.
- Cook the Kofta Kebabs: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook the koftas for 4 to 5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Alternatively, bake on a parchment-lined tray in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Fresh Salad: While the koftas cook, chop cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions into bite-sized pieces. Toss with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste, creating a crisp and tangy salad to complement the kebabs.
- Warm the Flatbread: Gently warm flatbread in a dry skillet or oven until soft and pliable. Drizzle with olive oil if desired. This enhances the texture and flavor, making it perfect for wrapping or dipping.
Notes
- Chill the kofta mixture for at least 30 minutes before shaping for easier handling and better texture.
- Use fresh parsley and mint for the best flavor; dried herbs won’t have the same impact.
- Do not overcook the koftas to keep them juicy and tender.
- Make sure koftas are shaped evenly for consistent cooking.
- Allow koftas to rest a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling or Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (includes kofta, salad, and flatbread)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: Kofta, Middle Eastern, Kebabs, Lamb, Beef, Salad, Flatbread, Grill, Spices, Healthy, Comfort Food