Ingredients

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🛒 Ingredients needed for the Kofte Kebabs

Kofte Kebabs

Kofte Kebabs

- 500 g minced lamb, beef, or a combination

- 1 small onion, finely grated

- 2 garlic cloves, minced

- 1 teaspoon salt

- ½ teaspoon black pepper

- ½ teaspoon ground cumin

- ½ teaspoon ground coriander

- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Metal or soaked wooden skewers

Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce

- 200 g Greek yogurt

- 1 small cucumber

- 1–2 garlic cloves

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- 1 teaspoon lemon juice

- Salt and pepper

- Fresh dill or mint (optional)

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Instructions

👩‍🍳 How to Make Kofte Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce

Making homemade kofte is easier than you might think. The secret is mixing the meat thoroughly before shaping it firmly around the skewers.

STEP 1 – Gather and Measure the Ingredients

Combine all of your meat ingredients and measure the spices before beginning.

⚡ Flash Tip: Preparing everything first makes mixing much easier.

STEP 2 – Season the Meat

Add the onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne, herbs, and olive oil to the minced meat.

Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated.

STEP 3 – Knead Until Sticky

Continue mixing with your hands for several minutes until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together easily.

This develops the perfect texture for skewering.

🚫 Avoid This Mistake: Don't stop mixing too soon. Proper mixing helps prevent the kebabs from falling apart.

STEP 4 – Finish Mixing

Ensure all herbs and spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

STEP 5 – Shape the Kebabs

Divide into 6–8 equal portions.

Press each portion firmly around a skewer, forming long oval-shaped kebabs.

⚡ Flash Tip: Wet hands slightly to prevent sticking.

STEP 6 – Prepare for Grilling

Arrange the shaped kebabs on a tray while preheating the grill.

STEP 7 – Make the Tzatziki Sauce

Grate and squeeze the cucumber.

Mix with Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.

Allow the sauce to chill before serving.

STEP 8 – Grill the Kebabs

Cook over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes, turning every few minutes until browned on all sides and fully cooked.

Serve immediately with warm lavash, pita, fresh salad, and plenty of tzatziki.