Beef kofta with zucchini, chilli and mint
Beef kofta with zucchini, chilli, and mint combines spiced ground beef and tender vegetables for a hearty meal. This straightforward recipe highlights grilling and fresh ingredients for a delightful family dinner.
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1/2 onion18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1/4 cup coriander leaves
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp cinnamon
1/3 cup olive oil
2 cherry tomatoes
2 large zucchini
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 red hot chili peppers
1/4 cup greek yogurt
Beef kofta with zucchini, chili, and mint is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of spiced ground beef with the freshness of vegetables and herbs. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The koftas are easy to prepare and grill, making them a versatile option for many occasions. Follow the steps below to create a delightful and savory meal that is sure to impress.
Instructions:
- Finely chop the 1/2 onion and set aside.
- Chop the coriander leaves.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Finely chop the red hot chili peppers.
- Spiralize or cut the zucchini into thin strips.
2. Prepare the Kofta:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped coriander, paprika, ground cumin, and cinnamon.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Form the mixture into small, oblong patties or balls, about 2-3 inches in length.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the kofta to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the meat is browned and cooked through.
- Remove the kofta from the skillet and set on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of olive oil if needed.
- Add the spiralized or thinly sliced zucchini and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until just tender but still crisp.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red hot chili peppers, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
- Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Serving:
- Arrange the cooked zucchini mix on a serving platter.
- Place the kofta on top of the zucchini.
- Drizzle the Greek yogurt over the top, or serve it on the side as a dip.
- Garnish with additional chopped coriander leaves if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Beef Kofta with Zucchini, Chili, and Mint!
Beef kofta with zucchini, chili, and mint is a versatile and hearty dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. The tender and flavorful koftas paired with the fresh and vibrant vegetables make for a well-balanced meal. With these tips and detailed steps, you'll be able to create a restaurant-quality dish that will be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy this delicious recipe and add your personal touch to make it even more special!
Beef kofta with zucchini, chilli and mint FAQ:
Cook the kofta for about 4-5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat, or until they are browned and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safety.
You can substitute ground lamb or turkey for the ground beef. Adjust the seasoning to suit the meat's flavor profile, but the overall spices will work well with either option.
Yes, you can prepare the kofta mixture in advance, shape them into patties, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and can save time on your cooking day.
Store leftover kofta and zucchini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
The kofta should be browned on the outside and have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Cutting one open should reveal no pink color, ensuring it is fully cooked.
Tips:
- Ensure the ground beef is at room temperature before mixing. This helps the spices distribute evenly and aids in better binding.
- Grate the zucchini and squeeze out excess moisture before cooking to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like mint and cilantro to brighten up the dish and add extra layers of flavor.
- Use a food processor to finely chop the onion and coriander leaves for a more uniform texture in the kofta mixture.
- Adjust the spice levels to your preference, especially if you are sensitive to heat from the chili peppers.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 390kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 3.51g
Sugar 7g
Fat 45g
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