Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of the Middle East! Our Kofta with Cilantro Sauce is not just a recipe – it's a flavor explosion that combines tender, spiced meat with a creamy, zesty sauce that will make your dinner guests beg for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious food adventurer, this recipe promises to turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience that celebrates the rich, bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup yogurt
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients for the kofta and the cilantro sauce. Ensure that the ground beef or lamb is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into small oval or cylindrical patties, about 2-3 inches long. You should be able to make approximately 12-16 kofta, depending on the size.
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. If grilling, ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Place the kofta on the grill or skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- While the kofta is cooking, prepare the cilantro sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the kofta are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices.
- To serve, place the kofta on a platter and drizzle with the cilantro sauce. You can also garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired. Serve with pita bread or rice and enjoy your delicious Middle Eastern meal!
Tips
- Meat Selection Matters: For the most authentic and juicy kofta, use ground lamb or a mix of beef and lamb. Ensure the meat has some fat content for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Mixing Technique: When combining ingredients, use your hands and mix gently. Overmixing can make the meat tough and dense.
- Uniform Sizing: Try to make your kofta patties similar in size to ensure even cooking. Use slightly wet hands to prevent the meat from sticking to your palms.
- Temperature is Key: Let the meat come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and more consistent results.
- Don't Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Remove from heat at 160°F to keep the kofta juicy and tender.
- Sauce Consistency: If your cilantro sauce is too thick, add a little water or extra lemon juice to thin it out. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serving Suggestion: For an authentic experience, serve with warm pita bread, a fresh salad, or over fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
