Grilled Kofta Recipe: Juicy, Flavor-Packed Middle Eastern Kebabs

There’s something magical about food cooked over an open flame—the smoky aroma, the charred edges, the irresistible juiciness. One of the best examples of this is grilled kofta, a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with ground meat, herbs, and spices, shaped onto skewers, and grilled to perfection.

Kofta (also spelled kefta, koofteh, or kebab) is beloved across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, with countless variations depending on the region. My first encounter with kofta was at a bustling food market where the smoky scent drew me in from blocks away. Served hot off the grill with warm flatbread, hummus, and fresh salad, it instantly became a favorite. Today, I make grilled kofta at home whenever I want something bold, aromatic, and crowd-pleasing.

This recipe will guide you through making authentic grilled kofta—juicy on the inside, slightly charred on the outside, and loaded with fresh herbs and spices.

What Is Kofta?

Kofta refers to ground meat that’s seasoned with spices, herbs, and onions, then shaped into patties, balls, or kebabs. The word comes from the Persian kūfta, meaning “to pound” or “to grind.”

• Middle Eastern kofta – Usually grilled on skewers, made with lamb, beef, or a mix of both.

• Indian/Pakistani kofta – Often served in a rich curry sauce.

• Greek keftedes – Pan-fried meatballs with Mediterranean flavors.

This recipe focuses on Middle Eastern-style grilled kofta kebabs, known for their juicy texture, fresh herbs, and smoky grilled flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Grilled Kofta Recipe

• Smoky and juicy – Perfect charred flavor from grilling.

• Packed with herbs and spices – Parsley, garlic, cumin, and coriander shine.

• Versatile – Serve in wraps, with rice, or as part of a mezze platter.

• Make-ahead friendly – Shape and refrigerate ahead of time.

• Family and crowd pleaser – Perfect for barbecues, parties, and weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients for Grilled Kofta

For the Kofta Mixture:

• 1 lb ground lamb (or beef, or a mix of both)

• ½ medium onion, grated or finely minced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional but adds depth)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon allspice

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Grilling and Serving:

• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)

• Olive oil, for brushing

• Warm pita or flatbread

• Hummus, tzatziki, or tahini sauce

• Chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Kofta Mixture

1. Place ground meat in a large mixing bowl.

2. Add onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and all spices.

3. Mix thoroughly using your hands until well combined. (Overmixing slightly helps bind the mixture.)

4. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow flavors to develop.

Step 2: Shape the Kofta

1. With damp hands, divide the mixture into equal portions.

2. Shape each portion around a skewer into a long oval or log shape (about 4–5 inches long).

3. Press firmly so the meat sticks well to the skewer.

Step 3: Grill the Kofta

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).

2. Brush grill grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

3. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning until evenly browned and cooked through (internal temp ~160°F for beef/lamb).

4. Remove and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve

• Serve hot with warm pita bread, fresh salad, and a drizzle of tahini or tzatziki.

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Serving Suggestions

Grilled kofta can be enjoyed in many ways:

• In wraps – Stuff pita or flatbread with kofta, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and sauce.

• With rice – Serve over fragrant basmati or yellow rice with grilled vegetables.

• As part of a mezze platter – Pair with hummus, baba ganoush, tabbouleh, and olives.

• On salad – Slice and serve over a Mediterranean salad for a lighter option.

For drinks, kofta pairs beautifully with mint tea, a light lager, or red wine like Syrah.

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Tips for the Best Grilled Kofta

• Use a mix of meats – Combining lamb and beef balances flavor and juiciness.

• Grate the onion – Grated onion releases juices that help bind the mixture.

• Keep mixture cold – Chilling before grilling prevents the kofta from falling apart.

• Oil the grill well – Ensures the kebabs don’t stick.

• Don’t overcook – Cook until just done to keep them juicy.

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Variations of Kofta

Kofta is enjoyed around the world, and variations are endless:

• Turkish Adana Kebab – Spicier, often with red pepper flakes and sumac.

• Greek Keftedes – Small meatballs flavored with oregano and mint.

• Indian Malai Kofta – A vegetarian version with paneer or potatoes served in curry sauce.

• North African Kofta – Includes spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and harissa for heat.

• Stuffed Kofta – Some versions are stuffed with cheese or nuts for extra richness.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate raw kofta – Shape and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before grilling.

• Cooked leftovers – Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezer option – Freeze raw shaped kofta on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags. Cook from frozen, adding a few minutes to grilling time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake kofta instead of grilling?
Yes. Bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Can I make kofta without skewers?
Definitely! Shape into patties or small meatballs and pan-fry or grill.

What’s the best meat for kofta?
Lamb is traditional, but beef or a mix of lamb and beef works beautifully.

Can I make kofta vegetarian?
Yes. Try lentil kofta, chickpea kofta, or paneer-based versions for a meat-free alternative.

What sauces go best with kofta?
Tahini sauce, tzatziki, garlic yogurt, or even spicy harissa are all excellent.

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Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving, 4 servings)

• Calories: 340

• Protein: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 3g

• Fat: 26g

• Fiber: 1g

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Conclusion

Grilled kofta is one of those timeless dishes that proves simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavors. With juicy ground meat, fragrant spices, and the smokiness of the grill, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you serve it at a backyard barbecue, a festive dinner, or as part of a casual family meal, kofta is guaranteed to bring people together around the table.

The best part? It’s quick to prepare, endlessly versatile, and pairs beautifully with fresh sides like hummus, salad, and pita bread. Once you try this recipe, you’ll want to add grilled kofta to your regular cooking rotation.

So fire up the grill, gather your spices, and get ready to enjoy one of the most beloved dishes of Middle Eastern cuisine—grilled kofta at its best.

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