Mediterranean Spiced Kofta Kebabs with Refreshing Cucumber Mint Sauce
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these succulent Kofta Kebabs made from a blend of rich ground lamb and beef, perfectly seasoned with aromatic spices. Each kebab is grilled to a delightful char and served in warm pita or fluffy nane lavash, creating a satisfying sandwich that burst with flavor. Paired with a creamy, cool cucumber mint sauce that adds a refreshing contrast, this dish is ideal for a vibrant meal. Serve alongside a crisp salad and fluffy rice pilaf for a complete dining experience that transports you to a sun-drenched Mediterranean landscape.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground lamb
1 lb (raw)
ground chuck
1/2 lb (raw)
large onion
1 (minced)
flat leaf parsley
3/4 cup (chopped)
garlic
1 clove (minced (for kebabs))
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (ground)
chili powder
1 teaspoon (ground)
salt
1 1/2 teaspoons (to taste)
pepper
1 teaspoon (ground)
plain yogurt
1 cup (for sauce)
cucumber
1/2 (peeled, seeded, and diced)
fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup (chopped)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (for sauce)
garlic
2 cloves (minced (for sauce))
pita bread or nane lavash
4 (warmed)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped mint, salt, and minced garlic to create the cucumber-mint sauce. Cover and chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the kebabs.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, ground chuck, minced onion, parsley, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Using your hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and form a smooth mixture.
3
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a flat, torpedo shape, about 5 inches long and 2 inches wide.
4
Preheat your grill or heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the cooking surface is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
5
Place the shaped kebabs on the grill or skillet, cooking for 6 to 8 minutes. Turn the kebabs occasionally to achieve an even char on all sides and to ensure they are cooked through.
6
Remove the kebabs from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
7
To serve, place 2 kebabs on each warmed pita or nane lavash. Drizzle the chilled cucumber-mint sauce generously over the kebabs and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What meat is used in these Mediterranean Spiced Kofta Kebabs?
The recipe uses a blend of 1 lb ground lamb and 1/2 lb ground chuck.
How many kebabs does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 8 equal portions shaped into torpedo-style kebabs.
What are the dimensions of each Kofta kebab?
Each kebab should be shaped into a flat torpedo approximately 5 inches long and 2 inches wide.
What ingredients are in the cucumber mint sauce?
The sauce consists of plain yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped fresh mint, salt, and minced garlic.
How long should the kebabs cook on the grill?
The kebabs should be cooked for 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally.
What spices are used to season the meat?
The meat is seasoned with ground cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and fresh parsley.
How should the cucumber be prepared for the sauce?
The cucumber should be peeled, seeded, and diced.
What type of bread is recommended for serving?
Warmed pita bread or fluffy nane lavash are recommended.
What is the first step in preparing this recipe?
The first step is to whisk together the ingredients for the cucumber-mint sauce and chill it.
What heat setting should be used for the skillet or grill?
A medium-high heat setting is ideal for cooking the kebabs.
How do you prevent the kebabs from sticking to the grill?
Ensure the cooking surface is well-oiled before placing the kebabs down.
What is the recommended serving size per pita?
It is recommended to place 2 kebabs on each warmed pita.
Should the meat be rested after cooking?
Yes, let the kebabs rest for a few minutes after removing them from the heat before serving.
What type of onion is used in the meat mixture?
The recipe calls for one large minced onion.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
The recipe specifies 3/4 cup of chopped flat leaf parsley for the best flavor.
How much yogurt is needed for the sauce?
You will need 1 cup of plain yogurt.
Is garlic used in both the meat and the sauce?
Yes, 1 clove is minced for the kebabs and 2 cloves are minced for the sauce.
What texture should the meat mixture have before shaping?
The mixture should be thoroughly combined using your hands until it forms a smooth mixture.
How do you achieve an even char on the kebabs?
Turn the kebabs occasionally during the 6 to 8 minutes of cooking time.
What are some suggested side dishes for this meal?
A crisp salad and fluffy rice pilaf are suggested to complete the dining experience.
How much fresh mint is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of chopped fresh mint leaves.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
It features aromatic Middle Eastern spices with a refreshing and creamy contrast from the sauce.
How many pitas are needed for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 warmed pitas or pieces of nane lavash.
How much chili powder is used?
One teaspoon of chili powder is used in the meat seasoning.
Is ground chuck the same as ground beef?
Ground chuck is a specific type of ground beef that provides a rich flavor for these kebabs.
How much salt is added to the meat mixture?
The meat mixture requires 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, or more to taste.
Does the sauce require salt?
Yes, the sauce includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
What should be done with the sauce while the kebabs cook?
The sauce should be covered and chilled in the refrigerator.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 15 ingredients used in this recipe.
Can I use a skillet if I don't have a grill?
Yes, the kebabs can be cooked in a skillet over medium-high heat.