Spiced Beef Kofta Skewers

Name: Spiced Beef Kofta Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80% lean); 1 small onion, finely grated; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Skewers (soaked in water if wooden); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

When I first tried making Spiced Beef Kofta Skewers at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to prepare. The blend of spices creates a rich, aromatic flavor, and grilling them brings out a smoky depth that is absolutely irresistible. I love serving these skewers with a refreshing yogurt sauce to balance the spices, and they always disappear quickly at gatherings! With just a bit of prep and the right technique, you can master this delicious dish that feels fancy but is incredibly approachable.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-30T18:18:27.727Z

I remember the first time I served these Spiced Beef Kofta Skewers at a summer barbecue. The skewers were bursting with flavor, and everyone asked for the recipe. I used a combination of cumin, coriander, and paprika, which brings vibrant flavors to the beef. Grilling them on high heat ensures a beautiful char while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

One key tip I learned is to let the mixture rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes before shaping the koftas. This helps the flavors meld and makes it much easier to form them onto the skewers without falling apart. Try it out; you’ll love the results!

Why You Will Love These Kofta Skewers
Bold spices create an irresistible flavor profile
Juicy and tender beef texture with a satisfying char
Perfect for grilling parties and easy to make in batches

Mastering Kofta Texture

The key to achieving juicy and tender kofta lies in the ground beef selection. I recommend using 80% lean ground beef, as it offers the right amount of fat to keep the meat moist while still allowing for a satisfying char during grilling. If you prefer a leaner option, consider mixing in a bit of finely grated zucchini or adding a tablespoon of olive oil; this will help maintain moisture without sacrificing flavor.

When mixing the kofta ingredients, be careful not to overwork the meat. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough kofta. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until just blended. You want the mixture to be slightly sticky, which helps it adhere to the skewers and form a cohesive shape without falling apart on the grill.

Grilling Techniques for Success

Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is crucial for achieving a good char on your kofta skewers. Aim for a grill temperature of around 375°F to 400°F. This high heat creates a caramelization on the surface of the meat, delivering that sought-after smoky flavor. When you place the skewers on the grill, resist the urge to flip them too soon; give them about 4-5 minutes on each side to develop those golden-brown grill marks.

If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent burning. Alternatively, stainless steel skewers can be a great investment as they can be reused and offer an even heat distribution, ensuring your kofta cooks evenly throughout.

Diving into the Yogurt Sauce

The yogurt sauce is not just a refreshing dip; it also plays a vital role in balancing the spices in the kofta. Using full-fat Greek yogurt will provide a creamier texture, but if you are looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt. Adding a touch of honey can also help to sweeten the sauce slightly, rounding out the flavors from the spices without overpowering them.

For a twist, feel free to customize your yogurt sauce by incorporating other herbs such as mint or cilantro. Each herb brings a unique flavor profile that can complement the spices in the kofta. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning, since fresh herbs can vary in strength.

Ingredients

For the Kofta Skewers

1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1 small onion, finely grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

For the Yogurt Sauce

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together based on the sections above to create a flavorful dish!

Instructions

Prepare the Kofta Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, garlic, spices, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Shape the Koftas

Take a handful of the mixture and mold it around the skewers, pressing firmly to ensure they hold their shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they are soaked in water to prevent burning.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are nicely charred and cooked through.

Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Serve

Serve the kofta skewers hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside the yogurt sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your delicious Spiced Beef Kofta Skewers!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the kofta mix for some heat. Additionally, you can substitute beef with lamb for a different taste profile.

Variations and Serving Ideas

While beef is traditional for kofta, you can easily substitute it with ground lamb or chicken for a different flavor. Lamb will offer a richer taste, while chicken will give you a lighter alternative. Just be mindful of cooking times, as chicken may require a bit longer to ensure it's completely cooked through.

These kofta skewers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair them with a simple side salad or stuffed pita for a delicious meal. You could even offer various dipping sauces alongside the yogurt sauce, like tahini or a spicy harissa, to cater to different taste preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Kofta skewers are great for meal prep as the mixture can be made ahead. Prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to shape the skewers just before grilling for the best texture.

If you end up with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them back on the grill or stove over medium heat until warmed through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Serving with a freshly made yogurt sauce will revive the dish as if it were just made!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your kofta ends up falling apart on the grill, it may be due to insufficient binding from the fat in the meat or not enough time resting in the fridge. Adding a beaten egg can help hold the mixture together if this occurs. Another tip is to ensure the grill is hot enough before placing the skewers down, as a cooler grill can lead to sticking.

In case you notice your kofta getting too charred on the outside before cooking through, lower the heat slightly and check your cooking time. This could be especially important if you opt for leaner meats, which may cook faster than traditional 80% lean beef.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make kofta skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture and shape the skewers a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

→ What type of meat is best for kofta?

Ground beef is commonly used, but lamb is also traditional. You can also mix both for a richer flavor.

→ Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ What can I serve with kofta skewers?

Kofta skewers pair well with rice, pita bread, salads, or even roasted vegetables.