Lebanese Grilled Meat Kofta
Lebanese grilled meat kofta is a delightful dish that combines seasoned minced meat, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs, making it a must-try for any meat lover.
Ingredients
- 500 grams of ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Cover the mixture and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat a grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Take a portion of the meat mixture and mold it around a skewer, shaping it into an elongated kofta.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Grill the kofta for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Serve hot with pita bread, tahini sauce, and a side of fresh salad.
FAQs
- 1. Can I use chicken instead of beef or lamb for kofta?
- Yes, ground chicken can be used as an alternative, but the flavor and texture will differ slightly.
- 2. How can I make my kofta more spicy?
- You can add chili flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the meat mixture for extra heat.
- 3. What is the best way to grill kofta?
- Using a charcoal grill adds a wonderful smoky flavor, but you can also use a gas grill or stovetop grill pan.
- 4. Can I prepare kofta in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture a day ahead and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to grill.
- 5. What side dishes go well with kofta?
- Hummus, tabbouleh, and roasted vegetables are great sides to accompany kofta.
- 6. How do I know when the kofta is cooked?
- The kofta should be browned and slightly charred on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 70°C (160°F).
- 7. Can I bake kofta instead of grilling it?
- Yes, you can place the kofta on a baking sheet and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes.
- 8. Is kofta suitable for freezing?
- Yes, you can freeze the raw kofta for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or a freezer-safe bag.
