Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce

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Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce are a delightful fusion of bold, aromatic spices and succulent grilled beef, served alongside a refreshing and creamy cucumber yogurt sauce. This dish offers a mouthwatering combination of savory and fresh flavors, making it perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next outdoor barbecue. The smoky char from the grill perfectly complements the juicy, spiced meat, while the cooling tzatziki balances out the heat, offering a delicious contrast in every bite.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

½ small onion, cut into chunks
3 cloves garlic
⅓ cup parsley, finely chopped
1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (90% lean)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
¼ teaspoon allspice or cinnamon (optional)
1 ¼ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil for grilling
Flatbread and sliced vegetables (optional, for serving)

Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup plain reduced-fat Greek yogurt
½ cup grated cucumber, squeezed dry
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon fresh mint or dill (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
Pinch of kosher salt

Directions:

In a mini food processor, add the onion, garlic, and parsley. Process until finely chopped. If you don’t have a food processor, grate the onion using a box grater, and finely chop the garlic and parsley by hand.
Transfer the onion mixture to a large bowl, and then add the ground beef, cumin, coriander, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until fully combined.
Divide the mixture into 8 roughly equal portions. Mold each portion around the pointed end of a skewer, shaping them into oval kebabs.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the kebabs, turning occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until browned all over and fully cooked through.
Meanwhile, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, mint (or dill), and salt. Mix until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve the kofta kebabs on a platter with the tzatziki sauce, flatbread, and sliced vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and onion.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 241 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Origin of Beef Kofta Kebabs

Kofta is a dish that spans many regions, from the Middle East to South Asia and North Africa. The word “kofta” comes from the Persian word kufteh, which means “to grind” or “to pound.” It traditionally refers to a mixture of minced meat, spices, and herbs that are either shaped into meatballs or skewered and grilled.

Beef kofta kebabs are a popular variation, particularly loved for their rich flavor and versatility. These kebabs are made by mixing ground beef with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, resulting in a juicy, flavorful bite. The kebabs are typically grilled to perfection, giving them a smoky char that enhances their savory profile. Often served with dips like tzatziki sauce, they are a favorite at summer barbecues, casual dinners, and even festive gatherings.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What sets this Beef Kofta Kebab recipe apart is its perfect balance of flavors and the addition of a cooling tzatziki sauce. While classic kofta kebabs are already delicious on their own, pairing them with tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing contrast that takes the dish to another level. The creamy texture of the yogurt-based sauce, combined with the subtle tang of cucumber, garlic, and mint, complements the spiced meat beautifully.

This recipe is not only flavorful but also quick and easy to make, which makes it an ideal choice for weeknight meals. Despite the simplicity of the ingredients and preparation, these kebabs make an impressive dish for entertaining guests or preparing a meal for your family.

Health Benefits of Beef Kofta Kebabs

Beef kofta kebabs are packed with high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Here’s why this dish is a nutritious option for your meals:

Protein Powerhouse: Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth, maintaining a healthy immune system, and providing long-lasting energy. Protein also helps in maintaining satiety, making you feel fuller for longer.
Rich in Iron: Beef is also rich in heme iron, which is the type of iron found in animal-based foods. Iron is crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body and preventing iron-deficiency anemia.
Aromatic Spices for Health: The spices used in this recipe, such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, not only add to the flavor but also have health benefits. For instance, cumin is known for its digestive properties, while cinnamon has anti-inflammatory effects.
Healthy Fats: Using lean ground beef, such as 90% lean beef, ensures that you’re getting a lower-fat option. This version of kofta kebabs provides healthy fats that are important for hormone production, brain health, and overall well-being.
Tzatziki Sauce Health Benefits: The yogurt in tzatziki provides probiotics that support gut health. It’s also a great source of calcium and can aid in digestion. The cucumber adds hydration and antioxidants, while mint has been used for centuries to help with digestion and improve overall wellness.

Versatility of Beef Kofta Kebabs

One of the best things about kofta kebabs is their versatility. The ingredients can be customized to fit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some variations to consider:

Different Meat Choices: Although this recipe uses ground beef, you can swap it with ground lamb for a more traditional flavor or even use turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you could use plant-based meat alternatives or chickpeas blended with spices to create a meatless kofta.
Spice Level: The recipe calls for mild spices, but you can adjust the heat level according to your taste. Adding a pinch of chili powder or a diced jalapeño to the mixture will give the kebabs a nice kick. You can also experiment with other spices like cardamom or paprika to give the kofta a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions: Kofta kebabs are incredibly versatile in terms of how you serve them. They pair beautifully with a variety of sides, from pita bread to couscous, quinoa, or even a simple green salad. If you’re looking to lower your carb intake, consider serving them with cauliflower rice or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad.
Perfect for Meal Prep: These kebabs are a great meal prep option. You can easily make a large batch and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for later use. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat and serve with fresh tzatziki sauce.

The Tzatziki Sauce: A Cool and Creamy Addition

Tzatziki sauce is the perfect complement to the beef kofta kebabs, providing a creamy and cooling contrast to the spiced meat. This sauce is made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon, and herbs, which makes it refreshing and light.

Greek Yogurt: The base of tzatziki is Greek yogurt, which is thicker and creamier than regular yogurt. It’s packed with protein, calcium, and probiotics, which support a healthy digestive system.
Cucumber and Garlic: The grated cucumber in the sauce is a hydrating vegetable that adds a subtle crunch, while garlic infuses the sauce with bold flavor. Both ingredients are great for detoxification and digestion.
Herbs for Freshness: Fresh mint or dill adds a burst of freshness to the sauce. These herbs are not only flavorful but have been shown to aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

This tzatziki sauce can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for meal prepping or when entertaining guests. It’s also a fantastic dipping sauce for other grilled meats, falafel, or even fresh vegetables.

Why Grilling is the Best Cooking Method

Grilling is a healthy and flavorful way to prepare beef kofta kebabs. The high heat of the grill sears the kebabs, locking in juices and creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. Grilling also imparts a smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the meat and spices.

In addition to the flavor benefits, grilling uses little to no added fat, making it a healthier cooking method compared to frying. It’s also a fast and convenient way to cook, especially if you’re making multiple kebabs at once. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan to achieve similar results.

Conclusion

Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce is a delicious, protein-packed meal that is as healthy as it is flavorful. The combination of tender, spiced meat and cool, creamy sauce makes for a dish that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling full and nourished. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it to guests at a party, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with its versatility and health benefits, it’s a dish you can feel good about making time and time again.

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