Authentic Beef Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

Authentic Beef Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce 🍽️🌿✨

1. Introduction

Discover the rich flavors of Beef Kofta, a popular Middle Eastern dish that features tender, spiced ground beef shaped into savory balls or patties. This authentic Middle Eastern beef kofta recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner or special gathering. Paired with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress your family and guests alike. Ready in under an hour, this dish is both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

2. Ingredients for Authentic Beef Kofta

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

3. How to Make Authentic Middle Eastern Beef Kofta

Preparing the Meat Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. For best results, let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Shaping the Kofta

Divide the beef mixture into equal portions and mold it into oval or sausage-shaped patties or balls. You can also thread them onto skewers for grilling. Keep your hands moist to prevent sticking while shaping.

Cooking the Kofta

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the beef kofta in batches, turning occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through—about 8-10 minutes. Alternatively, for a smoky flavor, grill the kofta on a preheated barbecue or use a Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast for faster, healthier cooking.

4. How to Make Garlic Yogurt Sauce

This creamy and tangy sauce perfectly complements the savory beef kofta. To prepare:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Chopped fresh mint or dill (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

5. Storage Tips

Store any leftover beef kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through. The garlic yogurt sauce can also be kept separately for up to 2 days. To freeze, arrange cooked kofta on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

6. Serving Suggestions

Serve the beef kofta hot alongside fluffy rice, pita bread, or fresh salad. Drizzle generously with garlic yogurt sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley or mint. For a complete Middle Eastern feast, pair with dishes like roasted veggie chickpea tahini bowl or chicken cashew salad.

7. FAQs about Authentic Middle Eastern Beef Kofta

Can I make beef kofta with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly. Check out our quick turkey recipe for inspiration.

How long does it take to prepare and cook beef kofta?

Preparation takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and cooking requires another 10-12 minutes, making the total time around 30 minutes. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights.

What are some good side dishes to serve with beef kofta?

Serve with rice, pita bread, or salads like cilantro-lime cucumber salad. Hummus and roasted vegetables also pair beautifully.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – make chopping and preparing ingredients effortless and precise, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – perfect if you want to serve chilled beverages alongside your meal. It enhances your dining experience and impresses guests.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – ensures even cooking and easy cleanup while making your beef kofta.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast – allows for healthier cooking options with crispy results, ideal for grilling and roasting your kofta.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the irresistible flavors of authentic beef kofta with this easy-to-make garlic yogurt sauce recipe. This classic Middle Eastern dish can be customized to your taste and is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you grill, pan-fry, or bake the kofta, pairing it with a refreshing yogurt-based sauce elevates the entire meal. Embrace the bold spices and comforting textures for an unforgettable culinary experience!

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