Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

Big, bold herbs and spices make these beef kofta kebabs with tzatziki perfect for a super satisfying centerpiece for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. They are ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with delicious flavors. The combination of juicy beef and creamy tzatziki creates a delightful contrast that elevates this dish to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: With a mix of aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the kebabs on their own, or serve them with warm pita bread and a variety of dips for a complete meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean ground beef and fresh vegetables, these kebabs are both satisfying and nutritious.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild spices appeal to children, making it an excellent choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Metal or wooden skewers
• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Clean kitchen linen

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These are essential for shaping the kofta and keeping everything together while grilling.
• Grill: A good grill provides even cooking and adds that delicious charred flavor to the kebabs.
• Mixing Bowl: This is where you’ll combine all your ingredients easily without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Kebabs

• ½ yellow onion, grated
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon sumac (optional)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For Serving

• 8 metal or wooden skewers (see Note 2)
• ½ cup flat leaf parsley leaves
• 4 ounces feta, crumbled
• 1 cup hummus
• 1 cup tzatziki
• 1 cup diced cucumbers
• 2 roma tomatoes sliced
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Pita bread, warmed

How to Make Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Squeeze Out Onion Moisture

Transfer the grated onion to the center of a clean kitchen linen. Gather the edges of the linen and hold it over the sink. Gently squeeze it to wring out any excess liquid. Transfer the onion into a large bowl.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Add the ground beef, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, rosemary, cumin, oregano, sumac (if using), and cinnamon into the bowl with onion. Using your hands, mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Form Skewers

Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Carefully slide each skewer through the center of one portion of meat.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Place the skewers on your preheated grill. Rotate them with tongs every 2–3 minutes until they are slightly charred and cooked through—about 8–10 minutes total.

Step 6: Serve Your Dish

Transfer the skewers onto a platter. Serve alongside chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, hummus, tzatziki sauce, diced cucumbers, sliced tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion drizzled with olive oil, and warmed pita bread. Enjoy!

How to Serve Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

Serving beef kofta kebabs with tzatziki can elevate your dining experience, making it a flavorful centerpiece for any meal. Consider these creative serving ideas to enhance the enjoyment of this Mediterranean delight.

On a Platter

• Arrange the beef kofta kebabs on a large platter for a communal feel. Add fresh herbs and lemon wedges for garnish.

With Pita Bread

• Serve the kebabs alongside warm pita bread. This allows guests to make their own wraps filled with meat and toppings.

Topped with Fresh Vegetables

• Include diced cucumbers, sliced tomatoes, and red onions as toppings. These add crunch and freshness to each bite.

Accompanied by Dips

• Present bowls of hummus and tzatziki on the side. Guests can dip their kebabs or spread the dips on pita bread.

As Part of a Mezze Platter

• Incorporate the kebabs into a larger mezze spread. Combine with olives, stuffed grape leaves, and assorted cheeses for variety.

Garnished with Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or mint over the kebabs before serving. This adds color and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

How to Perfect Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

To ensure your beef kofta kebabs are juicy and flavorful, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or mint can brighten up the flavor of your kebabs significantly.
• Don’t overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the meat tender.
• Pre-soak wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• Grill at medium-high heat: This ensures even cooking without drying out the meat. Keep an eye on them to avoid charring.
• Let them rest: Allow cooked kebabs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences; add more cumin or cinnamon for extra warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

Pairing side dishes with beef kofta kebabs enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some delightful options you can consider serving alongside.

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing mix of parsley, bulgur, tomatoes, and lemon juice that complements the flavors of the kebabs.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender provide a hearty side.
3. Greek Salad: A classic salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives offers a cool contrast.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These savory bites filled with rice and herbs pair well as a flavorful accompaniment.
5. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, diced vegetables, and tahini dressing adds texture and nutrition.
6. Fried Eggplant Slices: Crispy eggplant rounds bring an additional layer of flavor that complements grilled meats.
7. Couscous Pilaf: Light and fluffy couscous cooked with broth and spices is an excellent base for absorbing flavors from the kebabs.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with herb butter makes for a delightful summer side that pairs wonderfully with grilled dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making beef kofta kebabs with tzatziki can be simple, but there are common mistakes that may hinder your success. Here are key errors to watch out for:

• Skipping the Squeeze: Failing to wring out the grated onion can lead to a mushy mixture. Always squeeze out excess moisture for a firmer texture.
• Overmixing the Meat: Mixing the beef too much can make it tough. Combine ingredients just until they are blended for tender kebabs.
• Ignoring Skewer Soaking: If using wooden skewers, neglecting to soak them can cause burning on the grill. Soak in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Placing kebabs on a cold grill can result in sticking and uneven cooking. Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat beforehand.
• Underestimating Cook Time: Cooking kebabs for too little time may leave them raw inside. Monitor cooking time closely; aim for 8-10 minutes total.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked beef kofta kebabs with tzatziki in an airtight container.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure that the tzatziki is stored separately to maintain freshness.

Freezing Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

• Wrap the kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freezing allows you to store them for up to 3 months.
• Tzatziki should not be frozen; make it fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place kebabs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I serve beef kofta kebabs with tzatziki?

Serve these flavorful kebabs alongside fresh pita bread, diced cucumbers, and ripe tomatoes. Drizzle everything with extra-virgin olive oil for added taste.

Can I use other meats for kofta?

Yes! While this recipe uses beef, you can substitute ground lamb or turkey if preferred. Adjust spices according to your meat choice.

How spicy are beef kofta kebabs with tzatziki?

These kebabs are not spicy but flavorful due to herbs and spices like cumin and oregano. Feel free to add chili flakes if you prefer some heat!

Can I make these beef kofta kebabs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Form into skewers just before grilling.

Final Thoughts

Beef kofta kebabs with tzatziki are not just delicious but also versatile! They make a perfect centerpiece for any gathering and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or sauces. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own—enjoy!