• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
GrillCulture.com
menu icon
go to homepage
  • ABOUT
  • TECHNIQUES
  • RECIPES
  • ESSENTIALS
  • BLOG
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • search icon
    Homepage link
    • ABOUT
    • TECHNIQUES
    • RECIPES
    • ESSENTIALS
    • BLOG
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ร—
    Home ยป Recipes

    Want to Try Something New? Try This Beef Kofta Kebabs Recipe

    Published: Jun 1, 2023 by Thierry @ Grill Culture ยท This post may contain affiliate links ยท Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe
    Kefta kabob

    Hello to all the food lovers out there! Have you ever found yourself craving something savory, juicy, and oh-so-delicious that just screams comfort food? Today, we're diving into the aromatic world of Middle Eastern cuisine with our kofta kebab recipe. Trust me, once youโ€™ve had a taste of these succulent morsels of seasoned ground meat, grilled to perfection and served with warm pita bread, youโ€™ll be hooked!

    Beef Kafta Kabob this …

    Jump To:

    • 1 - Why You Will Love This Recipe
    • 2 - The Best Cut of Meat For This Recipe
    • 3 - Tools Needed
    • 4 - Cooking Tips
    • 5 - Step-by-Step for this Grilled Kofta Recipe
    • 6 - Storage Instructions
    • 7 - Side Dishes
    • Final Take Away
    • Recipe: Beef Kefta Kabob
    • Frequently Asked Questions

    1 - Why You Will Love This Recipe

    Lamb kofta kebabs or beef kofta kebabs, no matter your preference, this dish is a big crowd pleaser. It's hearty, flavorful, and great for gatherings. Plus, it's flexible! Want to impress at your next BBQ? Get that charcoal grill going. Looking for a quick weeknight dinner? Whip out your trusty grill pan. This recipe is for everyone, from the outdoor grill enthusiasts to apartment dwellers. I promise, each bite will transport you to a world of rich spices and herbs, making this a delightful journey for your taste buds.

    2 - The Best Cut of Meat For This Recipe

    - Recommended Cut For This Recipe

    Our recipe calls for 2 lbs of 80% lean ground beef. The fat content is crucial because it ensures that our kebabs stay juicy and flavorful. My personal recommendation is wagyu beef, specifically from Snake River Farms, known for their high-quality cuts. This rich and buttery beef really elevates the dish and leaves your guests begging for your secret ingredient. If you're shopping locally, look for evenly distributed marbling in the beef, which is an indicator of superior taste and tenderness.

    - Other Cuts You Can Use For This Recipe

    If wagyu isnโ€™t accessible to you, donโ€™t worry. You can substitute it with other types of ground meat. Ground turkey offers a leaner, but still flavorful, option. Alternatively, you can experiment with a combination of beef and lamb, which adds a touch of gamey flavor to the mix. Donโ€™t be afraid to make this your own version of kofta, thatโ€™s the best part!

    Raw Ground Beef

    - Using Wagyu Beef, Grass-Fed Beef, or Dry Aged Beef for this Recipe

    When preparing kofta kebabs, your choice of meat can significantly influence the end result. Opting for premium meats such as Wagyu or grass-fed beef can elevate your culinary creation to a new level. Renowned for their rich marbling, these meats impart a burst of succulent flavors, making your kebabs incredibly juicy and packed with taste. Particularly with Wagyu, the result is a tender, flavorful kebab that's hard to resist. However, remember that high-quality meats like these deserve careful cooking. Keep a keen eye on your kebabs and use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 160ยฐF, indicating perfectly cooked kebabs. On the contrary, dry-aged beef, while having a concentrated flavor, doesn't necessarily enhance our kofta kebab, as the unique mix of herbs and spices in this recipe already creates a distinctive flavor profile. Hence, it's advised to save those dry-aged cuts for your steaks. If you're intrigued by dry-aged beef, check out Omaha Steaks, a reliable online distributor with a vast selection.

    Also Check Out This Post:
    The Best Wagyu Hot Dog in Less Than 10 Minutes

    Butcher's Selection

    srf american wagyu ground beef

    SRF Wagyu Ground Beef - 1 lb

    Buy Now โ†’

    3 - Tools Needed

    - Skewers

    Skewers are essential for kebabs. Whether you use metal or wooden skewers (remember to soak them in water to prevent burning), they allow for easy grilling, flipping, and eating. Plus, food on a stick always seems more fun, doesn't it? You can find skewers at your local kitchen supply store or online.

    - Large Bowl

    You'll need a large bowl to mix your meat and other simple ingredients. It's ideal to choose a deep one, so you can really get in there and combine everything without spilling. Using your hands (clean, of course!), is the best way to mix your ingredients together. Trust me, your hands are your best tool here.

    - Grill or Skillet

    Whether you use a gas grill, charcoal grill, or a grill pan, the goal is to cook your kebabs evenly and give them that beautiful charred exterior. Grilling adds an extra flavor to our kofta kebabs, making them taste like they've just come off an open flame at a Middle Eastern street market.

    4 - Cooking Tips

    - Making This Recipe on the Grill

    There's something incredibly satisfying about cooking over an open flame. Using a charcoal grill or gas grill provides your kofta kebabs with an irresistible smoky flavor. However, be careful not to overcook them. Keep your grill on medium-high heat and flip the kebabs occasionally for even cooking.

    - Making This Recipe in the Oven

    If you don't have a grill, no worries! You can bake your kofta kebabs. Just preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC), place kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep in mind that baking won't provide the smoky flavor of grilling, but the kebabs will still be tasty.

    - Making This Recipe Sous Vide

    Yes, you can sous vide your kofta kebabs! This method ensures perfectly cooked, juicy kebabs, but it does take longer. Simply vacuum seal your shaped kebabs (off the skewers), place them in a water bath at 145ยฐF (63ยฐC) for 1-2 hours, then finish them off on a high heat grill or griddle pan for that essential charred exterior.

    - Other Cooking Tips

    First, don't skimp on the herbs. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint leave give your kofta that authentic Middle Eastern flavor. Second, be patient when shaping your koftas onto the skewers; take your time to ensure they are well formed and stay on the skewers. Third, when grilling, don't press down on the kebabs as this squeezes out the tasty juices.

    Also Check Out This Post:
    How to Grill Fish - The Best and Easiest Method!

    Here is another recipe you might like:

    Moroccan meatballs
    The Best and Easiest Grilled Moroccan Meatballs Recipe
    Jennifer Segal has crafted a delectable and effortless recipe for Moroccan meatballs that is truly mouthwatering. I'm speaking from experience here, having lived in Casablanca for more than 10 years - these flavors are AUTHENTIC! Plus, you won't have to worry about the typical dryness of traditional Moroccan meatballs - they'll always come out juicy...

    Read More

    Read More
    grillculture.com

    5 - Step-by-Step for this Grilled Kofta Recipe

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and all the ingredients. Mix everything together until well combined.

    Groud Beef Raw
    Ground Beef and Milk
    Ground Beef and Bread Crumbs
    Ground Beef and Onion
    Ground Beef and Garlic
    Ground Beef and Lemon Zest
    Ground Beef and Cumin
    Ground Beef and Salt
    Ground Beef and Pepper
    Ground Beef and Parsley
    Ground Beef and Gelatin

    Divide the ground meat mixture into equal portions (depending on how big you want your kebabs to be), and roll each portion into an oblong shape around the soaked bamboo skewers or metal kebab skewers, making sure they are firmly packed around the skewer.

    Kefta kabob split into 8 balls
    Kefta Kabob Skewered

    Brush the kefta kabob skewers with olive oil on all sides.

    Place your kefta kabob skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. I recommend using a grill mat to make sure you do not overcook the meat.

    Kefta Kabob on the Grill
    Kefta Kabob Grilling

    Once the kebabs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

    Kefta Kabob Grilled

    Serve the kebabs hot with some pita bread, cucumber yogurt sauce, and a side salad.

    6 - Storage Instructions

    - In the Fridge

    After grilling, let the kofta kebabs cool down to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3-4 days.

    - In the Freezer

    For longer storage, place cooled kebabs in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

    - The Best Way to Reheat This Recipe

    To reheat, first, thaw the frozen kebabs in the refrigerator overnight. Then, place the kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and warm in a preheated oven at 325ยฐF (165ยฐC) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

    beef kefta kabob

    7 - Side Dishes

    - Mint cucumber salad

    This salad is made with cucumber, red onion, and fresh mint, all dressed in a simple vinaigrette of olive oil and lemon juice. It's a refreshing and cooling side dish that complements the savory and slightly spicy taste of the kofta kebabs.

    Also Check Out This Post:
    Time for a Snack? Try This Easy Smoked Bacon Jerky Recipe!

    - Roasted chickpea salad

    This flavorful salad is made with roasted chickpeas, mixed with diced tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber, all tossed in a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing. It's a hearty and satisfying side dish that complements the meaty taste of the kofta kebabs.

    - Pita bread

    A classic side dish for kefta kabob skewers, warm pita bread is a soft and pillowy bread that is perfect for scooping up the meat and sauces. It can also be used to make sandwiches with the leftover kebabs.

    - Garlic cilantro rice

    A fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with garlic, cilantro, and fragrant basmati rice. The garlic and cilantro add a fresh and zesty flavor to the rice, making it a perfect complement to the rich and savory taste of the kofta kebabs.

    - Tzatziki sauce

    A tangy and creamy sauce made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill. The cool and refreshing taste of tzatziki sauce pairs perfectly with the warm and savory taste of the kofta kebabs. It also helps to cut through the richness of the meat and adds a delicious tangy flavor.

    Final Take Away

    This kofta kebab recipe is simple, delicious, and versatile. You can enjoy these kebabs in many different ways โ€“ sandwiched in warm pita with a garlicky yogurt sauce, over a bed of fragrant rice, or alongside fresh vegetables for a lighter meal. This is one recipe that's bound to become a family favorite.

    Kefta kabob

    Recipe: Beef Kefta Kabob

    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe
    Indulge in the fragrant and exotic flavors of the Middle East with our succulent Beef Kofta Kebabs! This recipe fuses luxurious wagyu or lean ground beef with an intoxicating blend of spices, fresh mint, zesty lemon, and a subtle hint of garlic. Whether grilled to smoky perfection, roasted in the oven, seared on an indoor grill pan, or slowly sous vide to precision, each skewered morsel promises an explosion of flavor, transporting your palate straight to the heart of vibrant bazaars and bustling food stalls. Don't just cook, create culinary memories with our Beef Kofta Kebabs.
    Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 40 minutes minutes
    Course: Entrรฉe, Main, Main Course
    Cuisine: Mediterranean
    Keyword: kafta kabob, kofta kebab, wagyu, wagyu beef, wagyu ground beef
    Servings: 9 Keftas
    Calories: 284kcal

    Equipment

    • 8 Skewers Bamboo or metal

    Ingredients

    • 2 lb ground beef 80% lean ground beef or wagyu beef (recommended)
    • ยผ cup whole milk
    • ยฝ cup dried bread crumbs
    • ยฝ cup yellow onion grated and drained
    • 4 units garlic cloves minced
    • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
    • 2 teaspoon ground cumin
    • 1 ยฝ teaspoon salt
    • ยพ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
    • ยฝ cup fresh mint chopped
    • 2 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
    • Olive oil

    Instructions

    Preparing The Meat

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, bread crumbs, onion, garlic, lemon zest, cumin, salt, pepper, mint, and gelatin. Blend well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. You may use a food processor to help you with this step, especially for larger batches.
    • Divide the mixture into eight equal portions. Shape each portion into an oblong form around your choice of skewer, making sure the mixture is packed firmly.
    • Brush each kebab with olive oil on all sides.

    For The Grill:

    • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat according to its instruction manual.
    • Place the kebabs on the grill, cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked.

    For Indoor Grill Pan or Skillet:

    • Preheat your indoor grill pan and brush with oil.
    • Cook the kebabs on the grill pan for about 6-8 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked. Turn the kebabs gently using tongs or a spatula.

    For Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
    • Place the kebabs on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until browned and fully cooked.

    For Sous Vide:

    • Preheat your sous vide to 131ยฐF (55ยฐC) for medium-rare or 140ยฐF (60ยฐC) for medium.
    • Seal the skewered kebabs in a vacuum-sealed bag and cook in the sous vide bath for 1-2 hours.
    • Finish the kebabs on a hot grill or grill pan for 1-2 minutes per side to get a nice sear and additional flavor.

    Notes

    • Regardless of the cooking method, use a meat thermometer to ensure the kebabs reach an internal temperature of 160ยฐF (71ยฐC).
    • Rest the cooked kebabs for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat.
    • Ground turkey can be a substitute for beef in this recipe. If using, aim for a higher fat content mixture for juicier kebabs. Adjust seasoning as per taste and ensure an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC).
    • The kebabs are fully cooked when they reach the correct internal temperature, are browned outside, and the juices run clear. Avoid overcooking to prevent a dry and tough texture. Enjoy your kofta kebabs with pita bread, cucumber yogurt sauce, and a side salad!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 284kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 72mg | Sodium: 486mg | Potassium: 329mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 124IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 3mg
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between kafta and kofta?

    Kafta and kofta are essentially the same dish, primarily differing in name due to regional dialects and variations across Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines. Both refer to spiced, minced or ground meatโ€”typically beef, lamb, or chickenโ€”formed into balls, patties, or skewered cylinders. However, the specific spices and herbs used may vary. Kofta is a broad term used across a large region, while Kafta is a specific type of kofta used mostly in Levantine cuisine (Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Jordan), which often includes parsley and onions.

    What country did kafta originate from?

    Kafta is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly in the Levantine region, which includes countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. It's hard to pinpoint the exact country of origin due to the dish's widespread popularity and regional variations across the Middle East and North Africa. However, the method of grinding meat and shaping it into skewers has ancient roots in this region.

    Is stew meat good for kafta kabobs?

    Generally, stew meat, which is often cut from tougher parts of the animal, is not the best choice for kafta kabobs. This is because kabobs typically require quick, high-heat cooking, which can make the tougher stew meat dry and chewy. Kafta kabobs are typically made with ground or minced meat, which ensures a tender and juicy result. Ground beef with a moderate fat content, around 80% lean, is an excellent choice. If you prefer, you can also use ground lamb or chicken.

    10% Discount

    More Recipes

    • Grilled Bavette
      Taste Steak Perfection With This Wagyu Bavette Sous Vide
    • Beef skewers
      Epic Grilled Skewers with Mind-Blowing Wagyu Bavette
    • Halibut beurre blanc
      Taste Perfection With My Elegant Halibut Beurre Blanc Recipe
    • Jamaican pepper steak
      Jamaican Pepper Steak Recipe: A Sizzling Symphony of Flavor

    I am a proud affiliate for some of these products, which means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help me finance new purchase and continue testing new products for you.

    That being said, keep in mind that all of my recommendations are based on deep experience and knowledge of these companies and their products, and I only recommend them because I would genuinely use them myself in my cooking. All opinions expressed on my blog are my own only. Please, do not spend any money on these products unless you believe that they will help you improve your barbecue.

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Thierry Oliva @ Grill Culture

    UNLOCKING CULINARY DELIGHTS: MEET MR. O, THE MEAT-LOVING TEACHER!

    Hey there, meat lovers! I'm Thierry (AKA Mr. O) โ€” a proud Special Education Teacher, devoted husband, and father of two adorable kids. But when it comes to cooking, my passion, I'm all about igniting taste buds and making home cooking an absolute breeze!

    At GrillCulture.com, I've created a sizzling haven for busy parents and meat lovers, tired of the same old recipe, and ready to bring flavors from all around the globe to the table. From succulent barbecues to mouthwatering home-cooked delights, I'll guide you through every flavorful twist and turn.

    Want to find out how my incredible journey from Africa to America has led me to creating this amazing blog? Dive into my incredible story and discover how my passion for food and wine has shaped my expertise.

    More about me โ†’

    Popular

    • Wood pellets
      How to Use Wood Pellets in a Charcoal Grill
    • Tritip vs brisket
      Tri Tip vs Brisket: A Meat Lover's Guide
    • Mesquite,wood,chips,soaking,for,smoking,meat,on,barbecue.,barbeque
      10 Best Tips to Keep Wood Chips from Burning in a Smoker
    • Fresh,grilled,tri,tip,steak,on,wood,cutting,board,,sliced
      How to Reheat Leftover Tri Tip: 10 Best Kitchen Methods
    • Meat sous vide
      The Art of Sous Vide: Turning Your Frozen Steaks into Culinary Masterpieces
    • Wagyu Cap Of Ribeye
      Wagyu Cap Of Ribeye: The Top Chefs' Secret Steak Revealed!
    • Wine tasting 1
      Pear Valley Winery: Our Favorite Wine Stop in Paso Robles!
    • Prawns gambas pil pil
      Prawn Pil Pil: A Spicy, Garlic-Infused Gambas Masterpiece

    EXCLUSIVE Deal!

    Grillculture discount

    We Are On YouTube

    Ready to elevate your grill game? Thierry from Grill Culture here! Dive into the aromatic world of Middle Eastern cuisine with our Beef Kofta Kebabs. Savory, juicy, and grill-perfect! Say hello to your new comfort food fave! ๐Ÿข๐Ÿ”ฅ

Recipe: https://grillculture.com/beef-kefta-kabob/

* Become a MEMBER of the Grill Culture Community *
- Website: https://GrillCulture.com 
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGrillCulture/ 
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheGrillCulture/
- Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/TheGrillCulture/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheGrillCulture 
----------------------------------------------- 
* Get My Weekly Newsletter *
https://grillculture.com/subscribe/ 
-----------------------------------------------
* My Meat Suppliers * 
- Best for Wagyu Beef and Premium Meat - Snake River Farms: snakeriverfarms.pxf.io/KeD4x7 
Get 10% OFF with Promo Code GRILLCULTURE at Checkout
- Best for Quality Meat and Dry Aged Beef - Omaha Steaks: https://shrsl.com/45sng 

* My BBQ Essentials *
- PK 360 Grill and Smoker: https://alnk.to/cb0FGVs
- PK Go (Portable): https://alnk.to/fSeAiba 
- Jealous Devil Natural Premium Charcoal - 35 Lbs: bbqguys.sjv.io/eKNbZ1 

My Thermometers *
- ChefsTemp Quad XPro Wireless Thermometer Long-Range: https://shrsl.com/45sn9 
- ChefsTemp Finaltouch X10 Instant Read Meat Thermometer: https://shrsl.com/45sn8 
- ChefsTemp ProTemp Plus Wireless Meat Thermometer: https://shrsl.com/45snc 

* My Sous Vide Equipment *
- Anova Precision Cooker WiFi: https://alnk.to/7qidd2T 
- Anova Sous Vide Container: https://alnk.to/6mNFkak 
- Anova Vacuum Sealer: https://alnk.to/8EHw4Mn 
- Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Bags: https://alnk.to/gVJ8b8j 
- Anova Precision Port Resealable Bags: https://alnk.to/4fOzylz 

* Other Equipment I Use Often *
- My Smithey Ironware Cast Iron Skillet: smithey-ironware.pxf.io/Gmg5Pn 
- My Spices: https://shrsl.com/45spe 
- My Misen Knives: bbqguys.sjv.io/QybWkA 
- My BBQ Tool Set: bbqguys.sjv.io/k0WNxN 

* Want to Take Your Cooking Skills to the Next Level? *
- Join the Grill Masters Club: https://shrsl.com/45soj 
- Join the Thomas Keller and Aaron Franklin MasterClass: masterclass.pxf.io/ZQbvMX 

I am a proud affiliate for some of these products, which means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help me make new purchase and continue testing new products for you.
That being said, keep in mind that all of my recommendations are based on deep experience and knowledge of these companies and their products, and I only recommend them because I genuinely use them in my cooking. All opinions expressed on my blog are my own only. Please, do not spend any money on these products unless you believe that they will help you improve your barbecue. 
If you have any questions please leave a comment below and I will reply. Thank you so much for watching see you on the next video! ๐Ÿ™‚ 

#food #cooking #travel

    0 0

    YouTube Video VVVlamRobzZfSnRQUWthelBQWHoxdXN3Lk9YTzM4TlRxN0xJ

    Donโ€™t Like Beef Kofta Kebabs? Well, You Havenโ€™t This Recipe!

    52 views September 24, 2023 12:00 am

    Load More... Subscribe

    Join Us On Facebook

    Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons
    Cover for Grill Culture
    3
    Grill Culture

    Grill Culture

    Join me as I share my culinary journey around the world and discover the BEST meat recipes!

    Play

    ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Spice up your mealtime with a trip to Morocco, right from your kitchen! Join me as we create succulent Moroccan Meatballs, infused with exotic spices and a touch of Grill Culture magic. ๐Ÿข From the perfect blend of herbs to a rich, tantalizing sauce, we'll cook up a feast fit for a Moroccan palace! Click play, and let's roll into flavor #grillculturei#moroccanmasterycanMastery ๐ŸŒถ๏ธ๐Ÿฅ˜

    drp.li/9ZzMM
    ... See MoreSee Less

    9 hours ago
    View on Facebook
    · Share
    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email
    View Comments
    • Likes: 0
    • Shares: 0
    • Comments: 0

    0 CommentsComment on Facebook

    Footer

    โ†‘ back to top

    Privacy Policy

    Join Us On:

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Twitter
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube

    Subscribe

    About

    Contact

    Copyright ยฉ 2023 Grill Culture