Authentic Egyptian Kofta Kebab Recipe

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Few dishes capture the essence of Middle Eastern street food like the Egyptian Kofta Kebab. This recipe is a perfect blend of ground meats, warm spices, and fresh herbs—grilled to smoky perfection and best served with pita, tahini, and a refreshing salad. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a new weeknight favorite, this dish delivers big on flavor and is surprisingly easy to make at home.

This recipe is ideal for home cooks looking to explore the rich culinary traditions of Egypt and North Africa. It’s also perfect for grill lovers, foodies craving bold flavors, or anyone needing a protein-rich meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Best of all, you don’t need fancy equipment or obscure ingredients to bring this traditional dish to life.

Why You’ll Love This Kofta Kebab Recipe

  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of ground beef and lamb, mixed with warming spices like cinnamon, cumin, and coriander, creates a deeply satisfying taste.

  • Easy to Prepare: Just mix, shape, chill, and grill. It’s that simple.

  • Versatile: Serve it as a main course, in pita sandwiches, or over rice.

  • Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead and reheat for easy lunches or dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 lb ground lamb

  • 1 small onion, grated

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 2 tsp ground cumin

  • 1 tsp ground coriander

  • 1 tsp cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground allspice

  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • Skewers for grilling (metal or soaked wooden skewers)

Note: The combination of lamb and beef gives these kebabs richness and depth. You can opt for just beef if needed, but lamb adds authentic flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large mixing bowl

  • Box grater or food processor (for grating onion)

  • Chef’s knife and cutting board

  • Garlic press (optional)

  • Skewers (metal or wooden soaked for at least 30 minutes)

  • Grill or oven broiler

  • Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

  • Refrigerator space for chilling kebabs before cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Meat and Seasonings

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground lamb, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and all the spices. Mix thoroughly by hand or with a sturdy spoon until everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should feel cohesive and slightly sticky—this helps the kofta hold together on the grill.

2. Shape the Kofta

Divide the meat mixture into 8–10 portions. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer, shaping it into a long, sausage-like cylinder about 1 inch in diameter. Press firmly to ensure it stays in place during grilling.

3. Chill Before Grilling

Place the skewers on a tray or plate and refrigerate them for at least 20 minutes. This step helps the kofta firm up and prevents crumbling on the grill.

4. Grill or Broil

Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or a broiler pan. Cook the kofta for about 4–5 minutes per side, turning once, until the meat is browned on the outside and cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

5. Rest and Serve

Let the kofta rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices and intensifies the flavor. Serve with warm pita bread, tahini sauce, and a side salad like tabbouleh, cucumber yogurt salad, or fattoush.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked kofta kebabs in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry them out.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

  • Beef Only: Use only ground beef if lamb isn’t available.

  • Turkey or Chicken: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to compensate for lower fat content.

  • Spice Swap: Add paprika or smoked paprika for a twist. Skip cayenne for a milder version.

  • Stuffed Kofta: Add a small cube of feta or mozzarella inside each kofta before shaping for a delicious melted surprise.

  • Oven-Baked: Don’t have a grill? Bake the kofta at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What to Serve With Egyptian Kofta Kebab

These kebabs are bold and herby—ideal for pairing with fresh, cool, or slightly acidic accompaniments:

  • Pita or Flatbread: Soft, warm bread is a must.

  • Tahini Sauce: Creamy and nutty, a classic Egyptian accompaniment.

  • Garlic Yogurt Sauce: Tangy and cooling—perfect for spicy kofta.

  • Rice Pilaf: Add a simple saffron or vermicelli rice.

  • Salads:

    • Tabbouleh – bright and herbaceous

    • Cucumber-Tomato Salad – light and juicy

    • Fattoush – crisp with sumac and pita chips

  • Pickled Vegetables: Great contrast and zing.

  • Drink Pairings:

    • Mint Lemonade for a refreshing, citrusy match

    • Ayran or Laban (salted yogurt drink) for a traditional, cooling sip

    • Light Red Wine or Amber Ale for evening grill sessions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make kofta without skewers?

Yes! Simply shape the meat into small patties or logs and grill or pan-fry them. You’ll still get all the flavor.

What makes Egyptian kofta different from other kofta recipes?

Egyptian kofta usually includes warm spices like cinnamon and allspice, and it’s typically made with a mix of lamb and beef. The use of parsley and the style of grilling also add a regional touch.

Can I prepare the kofta ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can mix and shape the kofta up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until ready to grill.

Why is chilling important before grilling?

Chilling helps the meat firm up, which keeps it from falling apart on the grill and helps seal in moisture.

Can I use a grill pan indoors?

Yes, a cast-iron grill pan works great. Preheat it well and cook the kofta over medium-high heat, flipping halfway.

Final Thoughts

Egyptian Kofta Kebab is a delicious gateway into Middle Eastern flavors, combining aromatic spices, juicy meats, and a satisfying charred finish. Whether you’re serving them at a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress.

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