Description
Juicy Beef Kofta with Garlic Yogurt Sauce is an easy and flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring spiced ground beef meatballs cooked to perfection and served with a creamy, tangy garlic yogurt sauce. This recipe combines fragrant spices, fresh herbs, and a simple yogurt dip that elevates the dish to a delightful culinary experience perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Kofta
- 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20) (Substitute with ground lamb or turkey if desired)
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped (Sautéed onion enhances flavor)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Fresh garlic is best)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (Cilantro or mint can be used as alternatives)
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin (Freshly ground preferred)
- 1 tsp Ground Coriander (Freshly ground recommended)
- 1 tsp Salt (Adjust based on personal preference)
- 1/2 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (Adjust to taste)
Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- 1 cup Plain Yogurt (Whole milk or Greek yogurt for richness)
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Adds acidity to brighten flavors)
- 1 clove Garlic, minced (optional to add extra garlic flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the Kofta Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with finely chopped sautéed onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated for a uniform flavor.
- Shape and Cook the Kofta: Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into oval or round meatballs. Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat with a little oil. Cook the koftas for about 5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and nicely browned on the outside, ensuring the inside is juicy and tender.
- Prepare the Garlic Yogurt Sauce & Serve: In a small bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, lemon juice, and additional minced garlic if desired for extra zest. Adjust seasoning with salt if necessary. Serve the warm koftas topped or with a side of the garlic yogurt sauce for dipping, garnishing with extra chopped parsley or lemon wedges if preferred.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground lamb or turkey according to preference.
- Sautéing the onion before mixing with meat adds more depth of flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro or mint instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust seasoning especially salt and pepper according to taste.
- Serve with warm pita bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
