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“Juicy 30-Minute Beef Kofta Kebabs That Wow Every Time”

beef kofta kebabs

Juicy and flavorful beef kofta kebabs seasoned with garlic and herbs, perfect for grilling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lb ground beef (80/20 works great)
  • 1/2 medium onion, grated (or very finely minced)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne or red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing grill pan/grates)
  • Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, garlic, parsley (and cilantro if using), salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and optional spices. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overwork).
  3. Divide mixture into 6–8 portions. With damp hands, press and shape each portion around a skewer into a long, even log (about 1 inch thick). Chill 10 minutes to help them hold shape.
  4. Preheat grill (medium-high) or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates/pan.
  5. Cook kofta kebabs 8–10 minutes total, turning every 2–3 minutes, until browned on all sides and cooked through (160°F for ground beef).
  6. Rest 2–3 minutes, then serve hot with pita, rice, salad, and your favorite sauce.

Notes

  • Use 80/20 ground beef for juicier kebabs.
  • Don’t overmix the meat to keep the texture tender.
  • Chill shaped kebabs before cooking to help them hold their shape.

Nutrition

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