Juicy Lebanese Beef Kofta with Cool Mint Sauce Recipe

Introduction

Experience the rich flavors of the Middle East with these juicy Lebanese beef kofta skewers. Paired with a refreshing mint yogurt sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.

Ingredients

• 500 g round beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic.
2. Step 2: Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Step 3: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each around a skewer in a sausage form.
4. Step 4: Brush the kofta lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
5. Step 5: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the kofta skewers for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
6. Step 6: Meanwhile, whisk together yogurt, mint, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl to make the cool mint sauce.
7. Step 7: Remove the kofta from heat and let them rest for 2 minutes to retain juices.
8. Step 8: Serve the beef kofta with the cool mint sauce alongside warm pita bread or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
• Feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes if you like a little heat in your kofta.
• Substitute beef with lamb for a more traditional taste.
• Serve with a side of tabbouleh or hummus for a complete Middle Eastern meal.

Storage

Store leftover kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out. The mint yogurt sauce can be stored separately for up to 3 days and stirred before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the kofta without skewers?

Yes, you can shape the meat mixture into small patties or oval shapes and cook them on a grill or skillet without skewers.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can shape the kofta and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. The mint sauce can also be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.

Juicy Lebanese Beef Kofta with Cool Mint Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 74 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

This recipe features juicy Lebanese beef kofta grilled to perfection and served with a refreshing cool mint yogurt sauce. The kofta is seasoned with a blend of fragrant spices like cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika, delivering authentic Middle Eastern flavors. Accompanied by a tangy mint sauce, this dish is perfect as a flavorful appetizer or main course.

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Ingredients

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For the Beef Kofta

• 500 g round beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cool Mint Sauce

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/8 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, paprika, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
2. Shape Kofta: Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion around a skewer into a sausage-like form, ensuring they are compact and uniform for even cooking.
3. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush each kofta skewer with olive oil to help with grilling and to enhance browning and flavor.
4. Grill Kofta: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the kofta skewers for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are browned on the outside and cooked thoroughly on the inside.
5. Prepare Mint Sauce: While the kofta is grilling, whisk together the plain yogurt, chopped fresh mint leaves, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl until well combined and smooth.
6. Rest the Kofta: Once cooked, remove the kofta from the heat and allow them to rest for 2 minutes. This helps retain the juices and finish cooking evenly.
7. Serve: Serve the juicy Lebanese beef kofta hot with the cool mint yogurt sauce alongside warm pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• You can substitute beef with ground lamb for a more traditional flavor.
• For a spicier kick, add some finely chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• Make sure not to overmix the meat to keep kofta tender.
• If you don’t have a grill or grill pan, you can also broil or pan-fry the kofta until cooked through.
• Remove the skewers before serving to avoid choking hazards, especially for children.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Keywords: Lebanese beef kofta, grilled kofta, mint yogurt sauce, Middle Eastern recipes, grilled beef skewers