Spiced Beef Kofta with Yogurt Sauce

Written by Sarah Gardner
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If you’re craving bold spices and smoky, charred flavors, this Beef Kofta recipe is perfect for you. These juicy, spiced beef skewers are packed with Middle Eastern and South Asian flavors and pair beautifully with a cooling yogurt sauce. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or grilling up a feast for friends, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

Spiced Beef Kofta with Yogurt sauce PIN IT

Spiced Beef Kofta with Yogurt Sauce

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Box grater for the onion
  • Garlic press optional but helpful
  • Skewers metal or soaked wooden skewers for grilling
  • Grill or grill pan a cast iron skillet works in a pinch
  • Small bowl for the yogurt sauce

Ingredients
  

For the Kofta

  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb for a Lamb Kofta Recipe variation
  • 1 small onion grated
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger minced
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh mint
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp garam masala great for Beef Recipes Indian inspired flavors
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Wooden or metal skewers

For the Yogurt Sauce

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill or mint
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Kofta Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, garlic, ginger, cilantro, mint, and all the spices. Mix well until evenly combined.
    mixing bowl filled with raw ground beef mixed with finely grated onion, minced garlic, and ginger PIN IT

Shape the Kofta

  1. Divide the mixture into 8 portions and shape each into an elongated oval around a skewer. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly oil your hands.

Grill the Kofta

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the kofta with olive oil and grill for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

Make the Yogurt Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, dill (or mint), cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
    Yogurt Sauce with other ingredients PIN IT

Serve

  1. Plate the kofta with a side of the yogurt sauce. Enjoy with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad.

Pairings

  • Classic Pairing: Serve with warm pita bread and a crisp cucumber-tomato salad.
  • Hearty Option: Pair with saffron rice or pilaf for a more filling meal.
  • Spicy Twist: Drizzle with harissa or a homemade spicy chutney.
  • Refreshing Drink: A cold glass of mint lemonade or a yogurt-based lassi balances the spices beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I make this into a Kofta Curry Recipe?

Yes! Instead of grilling, cook the kofta in a spiced tomato curry sauce for a delicious, saucy alternative.

2. What’s the best meat to use for kofta?

Ground beef (80/20) is ideal for Beef Kofta Kabob Recipe, but lamb works great for a Lamb Kofta Recipe. For a leaner option, you can use ground chicken (Chicken Kofta Recipe).

3. Can I make a vegetarian version?

Yes! Try a Kofta Recipe Vegetarian style using chickpeas or lentils. A Paneer Kofta Recipe is also a great alternative for a rich and creamy dish.

4. Can I cook these without a grill?

Absolutely! You can pan-fry them in a cast iron skillet or bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.

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