Ingredients Summary:
- Ground lamb or beef: 1 lb (or a mix of both)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped or grated
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil: For grilling or frying
Instructions Overview:
Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef with the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and all the spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper). Mix until well combined.
Shape the Kofta: Using your hands, form the mixture into oval or cylindrical-shaped meatballs. You can skewer them onto metal or wooden skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning).
Cook the Kofta: Heat a grill or frying pan over medium-high heat. Brush the kofta with a little oil and grill or fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
Serve: Serve hot with pita bread, rice, or salad. Kofta is commonly paired with dips like hummus or tzatziki.
For full recipe details, visit Serious Eats – Kofta Recipe.
Kofta, a popular dish throughout the Middle East, consists of spiced ground meat (typically lamb or beef) combined with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs. This Kofta recipe captures the essence of Middle Eastern meatballs, offering a perfect balance of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Whether grilled or pan-fried, these flavorful meatballs are often served with pita bread, hummus, or a fresh salad, making them a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Discover how to make these authentic spiced meatballs at home, and impress your family and guests with the rich flavors of the Middle East.