Greek Kofta Kebabs Recipe

Introduction

Greek Kofta Kebabs are flavorful, spiced meat skewers perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. These tender kebabs combine ground meat with aromatic herbs and spices, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground meat (beef, lamb, or a mix)
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or dill), finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 small onion, grated or finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for grilling

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the chopped herbs, spices, grated onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into long, oval-shaped kebabs around skewers, ensuring they are firmly packed.
3. Step 3: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Step 4: Grill the kebabs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning carefully, until they are browned on the outside and cooked through.
5. Step 5: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with warm pita, tzatziki, and fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

• For extra moisture, mix in a tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of milk into the meat mixture before shaping.
• Try adding a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
• Serve with a side of rice or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken but keep the herbs and spices for robust flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Uncooked kebabs can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before grilling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Greek Kofta Kebabs without skewers?

Yes, you can shape the meat mixture into small patties or logs and cook them on a grill pan or skillet if you don’t have skewers.

What side dishes go well with these kebabs?

These kebabs pair wonderfully with tzatziki sauce, warm pita bread, Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a delicious Mediterranean meal.

Greek Kofta Kebabs Recipe

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4.5 from 134 reviews

Greek Kofta Kebabs are flavorful ground meat skewers mixed with fresh herbs and aromatic spices, grilled to perfection for a delicious and authentic Mediterranean dish.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 kebabs 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Greek

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat Mixture

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with grated onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, mint, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture feels sticky.
2. Shape the Kebabs: Divide the mixture into equal portions (about 6-8). With wet hands, shape each portion into elongated sausage-like kebabs around skewers or simply form them by hand if not using skewers.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Kebabs: Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully to brown evenly on all sides. Continue grilling until the meat is cooked through and juices run clear, about 12-15 minutes total.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juiciness and flavor.

Notes

• Use a combination of lamb and beef for a richer flavor or just one type of meat based on preference.
• Ensure ingredients are finely chopped and mixed well to help kebabs hold their shape during grilling.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the kebabs on a grill pan or under the broiler.
• Serve with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and fresh salad for an authentic Greek meal.
• Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.

Keywords: Greek kofta kebabs, grilled kofta, Mediterranean kebabs, ground meat skewers, lamb kebabs, homemade kofta