Beef Kofta Kebabs with Creamy Tzatziki

Ingredients:

For the Kofta:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)

1 small onion, finely grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 Tbsp fresh mint, chopped

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

½ tsp smoked paprika

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Salt and pepper, to taste

6–8 metal or soaked wooden skewers

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt

½ cucumber, seeded and finely grated

1 clove garlic, minced

1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped

1 Tbsp lemon juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1️⃣ Prepare the Kofta Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine beef, grated onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined.

2️⃣ Shape onto Skewers:

Divide the mixture into 6–8 equal portions. Carefully form each portion around a skewer, pressing into a long, sausage-like shape.

3️⃣ Preheat the Grill:

Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates.

4️⃣ Grill the Kofta:

Place skewers on the grill. Cook 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred and cooked through (internal temperature ~165 °F / 71 °C).

5️⃣ Prepare the Tzatziki:

Squeeze excess water from grated cucumber using a kitchen towel. In a bowl, combine cucumber, yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.

6️⃣ Serve:

Plate the hot kofta kebabs and serve with chilled tzatziki sauce on the side. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges if desired.