Juicy and spiced ground beef kofta meatballs served with crisp vegetables, soft pita, and a drizzle of tahini sauce. A flavorful and protein-rich dish perfect for sharing or wrapping in flatbread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines bold spices, fresh herbs, and tender beef into flavorful kofta that’s satisfying and simple to make. It’s an ideal dish for casual dinners or gatherings and offers a customizable experience with fresh veggies and tahini sauce. Whether served in a pita wrap or plated with salad, it delivers a delicious taste of Middle Eastern cuisine right at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the kofta:

1 lb ground beef (or lamb)
1/2 onion, finely grated
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For serving:

Pita bread
Chopped lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced red onion
Fresh parsley or cilantro
Tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)

directions

In a large bowl, mix ground beef with onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs or oval-shaped koftas.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the koftas for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
Arrange koftas on a serving plate with pita bread, chopped vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Drizzle with tahini sauce and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Meat options: Use lamb, chicken, or a mix of beef and lamb for different flavor profiles.
Grilled kofta: Grill the kofta on skewers for a smoky taste.
Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
Yogurt dip: Swap tahini for garlic yogurt sauce for a tangy contrast.
Low-carb: Serve with lettuce wraps instead of pita.

storage/reheating

Store leftover koftas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Avoid storing vegetables and pita with the meat to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

How do I keep the koftas from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well combined and not too wet. You can refrigerate the formed koftas for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold shape.

Can I make the kofta mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator.

What type of ground meat works best?

Ground beef with a little fat (80/20) or ground lamb gives the best texture and flavor.

Can I bake the koftas instead of frying?

Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Is tahini sauce necessary?

It adds a rich, nutty flavor, but you can substitute it with tzatziki, hummus, or garlic yogurt sauce.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pita or serve with rice or lettuce wraps instead.

What’s a good side dish for this recipe?

Serve with tabbouleh, hummus, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I freeze cooked kofta?

Yes, cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Are koftas spicy?

No, the spices add warmth and depth, not heat. You can adjust according to your taste.

Can I cook this on a grill?

Absolutely. Thread the koftas onto skewers and grill over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning once.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern Beef Kofta with Salad & Pita is a versatile, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and enjoy. With its warm spices, fresh accompaniments, and creamy tahini, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or entertaining.