Kofta kebabs are a popular Middle Eastern dish that is typically made with ground meat, herbs, and spices. These delicious kebabs are traditionally cooked on a grill, but if you don’t have access to one or prefer an easier cooking method, you can also make them in the oven.

Cooking kofta kebabs in the oven is a great alternative because it allows you to enjoy the same delicious flavors and textures without the need for an outdoor grill. The oven provides a consistent heat source, ensuring that the kebabs are cooked evenly and thoroughly. Plus, it’s a convenient option that can be done all year round, regardless of the weather.

To make kofta kebabs in the oven, you’ll need to prepare the meat mixture by combining ground meat (such as lamb or beef) with a variety of spices and herbs. This mixture is then shaped into long, cylindrical kebabs that are perfect for skewering or placing directly on a baking sheet.

Place the kofta kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through. You can also broil them for an additional 1-2 minutes to get a nice char on the outside.

Once the kofta kebabs are cooked, you can serve them with pita bread, rice, or salad. They are delicious on their own, but you can also dip them in yogurt sauce or tahini for added flavor.

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Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family dinner, or simply craving some Middle Eastern flavors, making kofta kebabs in the oven is a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic dish. With a few simple steps, you can have a tasty and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

Preparation

To prepare kofta kebabs in the oven, you will need the following ingredients:

– 500 grams of ground beef

– 1 onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1/4 cup of parsley, finely chopped

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– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs

– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon of ground coriander

– 1/2 teaspoon of paprika

– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

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– Salt and pepper to taste

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F).

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into oblong-shaped kebabs. Thread the kebabs onto skewers, if desired.

Place the kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are evenly spaced apart.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the kebabs are cooked through and lightly browned.

Once the kebabs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

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Enjoy your delicious homemade kofta kebabs!

Choosing the right meat

Choosing the right meat is essential for making delicious kofta kebabs in the oven. The traditional choice of meat for kofta kebabs is lamb, but you can also use beef or a combination of both.

When selecting the meat, make sure it is fresh and preferably organic. Look for cuts with a good amount of fat, as this will help keep the kebabs moist and flavorful.

It is important to grind the meat for the kofta kebabs yourself, as store-bought ground meat may have additives and a different texture.

Grounding the meat

Grounding the meat for kofta kebabs can be done in a food processor or a meat grinder. Make sure to cut the meat into small chunks before grinding to ensure a consistent texture.

Grind the meat to a medium consistency – not too fine, but not too chunky either. This will help the kebabs hold together while cooking.

You can also use a combination of different meats to add more flavor to your kofta kebabs. Experiment with different cuts and fat ratios to find your preferred combination.

Gathering the necessary ingredients

Before you begin cooking kofta kebabs in the oven, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

For the kofta mixture:

  • 500g ground lamb or beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the yogurt sauce:

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt to taste

For serving:

  • Pita bread or naan
  • Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for garnish
  • Extra lemon wedges

Make sure to gather all these ingredients before starting the cooking process to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to move on to the next steps!

Marinating the meat

To achieve the best flavor and tenderness, marinating the meat is a crucial step in preparing kofta kebabs. The marinade helps infuse the meat with a combination of delicious spices and enhances its overall taste.

Ingredients:

  • 500 grams of ground beef or lamb
  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade.
  2. Using clean hands, mix the marinade ingredients together until well combined.
  3. Add the ground meat to the bowl and thoroughly mix it with the marinade, ensuring all the meat is coated.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and makes it more tender.
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Once the meat is marinated, it is ready to be shaped into kebabs and cooked in the oven. Marinating the meat adds depth and complexity to the overall taste of the kofta kebabs, making them even more flavorful and satisfying.

Preparing the marinade

Marinating the kofta kebabs is an essential step to infuse them with flavor and ensure they are juicy and tender. The marinade is a mixture of spices and other ingredients that will be absorbed by the meat. Here is how to prepare the marinade:

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
  3. Add the kofta kebabs to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Once the kofta kebabs have marinated, they are ready to be cooked in the oven. Make sure to remove them from the marinade and pat them dry before cooking.

Coating the meat with the marinade

Once the kofta mixture is well combined, it is time to add the marinade. The marinade will not only enhance the flavor of the meat but also help tenderize it.

To coat the meat with the marinade, place the kofta mixture in a bowl and pour the marinade over it. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the meat and marinade together, ensuring that all the meat is evenly coated.

After coating the meat with the marinade, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. However, for the best flavor, it is recommended to marinate the meat overnight.

The longer the meat marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. The marinade will penetrate the meat, infusing it with delicious flavors and making it incredibly juicy.

Remember to mix the meat and marinade occasionally while it is marinating to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Once the meat has finished marinating, it is ready to be shaped into kebabs and cooked in the oven.

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Shaping and skewering the kebabs

Once the kofta mixture is ready, it’s time to shape and skewer the kebabs. Follow these steps to ensure perfectly shaped and evenly cooked kebabs:

1. Prepare the skewers

Soak the wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before you start shaping the kebabs. This prevents them from burning in the oven. If using metal skewers, there’s no need for soaking.

2. Shape the kofta mixture

Take a portion of the kofta mixture and shape it into a cylindrical or elongated shape. You can do this by rolling the mixture between your palms, slightly elongating it as you go. Ensure the kebab is evenly shaped and compact so that it stays on the skewer without falling apart.

3. Skewer the kebabs

Thread the shaped kebabs onto the soaked skewers. Insert the skewer into one end of the kebab and carefully push it through the center, making sure it doesn’t break. Leave some space between each kebab on the skewer to allow for even cooking.

Continue shaping and skewering the remaining kofta mixture until all the kebabs are formed and loaded onto the skewers.

Now that you have shaped and skewered the kebabs, you’re ready to cook them in the oven. Refer to the next section to learn how to properly bake the kofta kebabs to perfection.

FAQ

What are kofta kebabs?

Kofta kebabs are a Middle Eastern dish made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with spices and other ingredients. They are shaped into small cylinders or balls and then grilled or baked.

Can I cook kofta kebabs in the oven?

Yes, you can cook kofta kebabs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kofta kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are cooked through, flipping them halfway through cooking.

What spices can I use to season kofta kebabs?

You can use a variety of spices to season kofta kebabs. Some common options include cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and garlic powder. You can also add chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

Can I make kofta kebabs with chicken instead of lamb or beef?

Yes, you can make kofta kebabs with chicken instead of lamb or beef. Ground chicken can be used as a substitute for the meat. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may be slightly different than traditional kofta made with lamb or beef.

What should I serve with kofta kebabs?

Kofta kebabs are often served with various accompaniments such as pita bread, yogurt sauce (like tzatziki), hummus, and a salad or grilled vegetables. They can also be served with rice or couscous.