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Mediterranean Beef Kofta

Tender, aromatic ground beef meatballs with warm Mediterranean spices and fresh herbs that deliver restaurant-quality flavor from your own kitchen.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 1 small onion, finely minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 tbsp breadcrumbs

Method
 

  1. Combine ground beef, minced onion, garlic, parsley, and mint in a large bowl. The key here is mincing everything finely so each bite gets balanced flavor. Add all your spices - cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Pour in the beaten egg and breadcrumbs, then gently mix everything with your hands. Don't overmix - you want tender koftas, not tough ones. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but still feel light. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs.
  3. With slightly damp hands, form the mixture into 12 oval-shaped patties, about 3 inches long. The dampness prevents sticking and helps create smooth surfaces. Place them on a plate and let them rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Cook the koftas for 5-6 minutes per side, turning once. You'll know they're ready when they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and feel firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for food safety.

Notes

Mix the kofta mixture the night before and refrigerate for better flavor development. Don't overmix the meat to avoid tough koftas. Let shaped koftas rest for 10 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape. Refrigerate cooked koftas for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth.