Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Turkey! These sizzling Kofta Kebabs are not just a meal, they're an experience that combines the rich, bold flavors of ground beef and lamb with a symphony of aromatic spices. Imagine tender, juicy skewers grilled to perfection, promising a taste so authentic and delicious that your family and friends will be begging for seconds. Whether you're a grilling enthusiast or a curious home cook, this recipe is about to become your new favorite weekend showstopper!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Turkish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Gather 1 pound of ground beef and 1 pound of ground lamb in a large mixing bowl. Make sure both meats are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Grate 1 onion using a box grater or a food processor, and add it to the bowl with the ground meats. The moisture from the onion will help keep the kofta juicy.
- Minced 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the mixture. Garlic adds a wonderful flavor to the kofta.
- Add 1 tablespoon of ground cumin and 1 tablespoon of paprika to the meat mixture. These spices are essential for achieving the authentic Turkish flavor profile.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, then adjust according to your preference.
- Using your hands, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the kofta tough.
- Once the mixture is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to shape the kofta.
- While the mixture is resting, soak wooden skewers in water for about 10 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you are using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
- After the resting period, remove the meat mixture from the refrigerator. Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then take a handful of the mixture and mold it around the skewers, shaping them into elongated patties.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed for consistent cooking.
- Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill grates. Cook the kofta kebabs for about 5-7 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until they are nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef and lamb.
- Once cooked, remove the kofta kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring they remain juicy.
- Serve the kofta kebabs hot with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and your choice of sauces, such as tzatziki or a spicy yogurt sauce. Enjoy your delicious Turkish Kofta Kebab!
Tips
- Meat Temperature Matters: Always use ground beef and lamb at room temperature for easier mixing and more consistent cooking.
- Don't Overwork the Meat: Mix ingredients gently to keep the kebabs tender and juicy. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense kebabs.
- Moisture is Key: The grated onion helps keep the meat moist, so don't skip this ingredient.
- Spice Freshness: Use fresh, high-quality spices like cumin and paprika to maximize flavor impact.
- Wet Hands Technique: When shaping kebabs, keep your hands slightly wet to prevent meat from sticking to your fingers.
- Grill Temperature: Maintain a medium-high heat for perfect browning without burning the exterior.
- Rest and Redistribute: Let kebabs rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with warm pita, fresh herbs, and cooling yogurt sauce for an authentic Turkish dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 298kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
