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–+ servings

Authentic Egyptian Beef Kofta Recipe

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Level up your BBQ with this authentic Egyptian beef kofta recipe! Juicy, tender, and easy to prep for the perfect summer family dinner.
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Servings: 6
Course: Entree
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds (900 g) ground beef no more than 85% lean; can use 50% lamb if desired
  • 1 large onion cut into large chunks
  • 1 cup (240 ml) cilantro and/or parsley washed and spun in salad spinner or rolled in paper towel; rough chopped
  • 1 plum tomato cut into quarters
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) garlic cloves peeled
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 ml) black pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 ml) allspice powder
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) breadcrumbs plain or seasoned
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) chili powder optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) ground cardamom optional

Method
 

  1. Place the meat and lamb into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Combine the parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, and tomato in a food processor or blender and process until a paste forms.
  3. Add the salt, pepper, allspice, cardamom, and optional chili powder, then mix until thoroughly combined.
  4. Pour the herb and spice mixture over the meat and mix by hand until well incorporated.
  5. Add the breadcrumbs and baking powder and mix until evenly distributed; add more breadcrumbs if the mixture is too soft or sticky.
  6. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface and refrigerate for up to 24 hours if preparing in advance.
  7. Shape the mixture into patties, fingers, or meatballs, ensuring they are at least 3/4 to 1 inch thick to retain moisture.
  8. Grill the kofta, bake it at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until juices run clear, or sauté it in a pan with oil over medium-high heat until browned on all sides.
  9. Serve hot or at room temperature with rice, pasta, or in pitas topped with tahini or tzatziki sauce.

Notes

Texture Secret: I always choose ground beef with about 20 percent fat because it ensures the kofta stays incredibly moist and flavorful during the high heat of grilling or baking.
Moisture Control