Kofta Kebabs with Creamy Yogurt Sauce

These Kofta Kebabs are bold, juicy, and bursting with Middle Eastern flavor. Made from a blend of spiced minced lamb or beef and served with a creamy yogurt sauce, this dish brings authentic street food charm to your table. Perfect for grilling, pan-frying, or baking, every bite delivers smoky richness and aromatic goodness that’s impossible to resist.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 420

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Kofta Kebabs

500 g minced lamb or beef (or a mix)
3 cloves garlic finely grated or pressed
2 tsp paprika regular or sweet
2 tsp mustard powder
4.5 tsp dried oregano
1.5 tsp mild curry powder
0.75 tsp kosher salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
8 pieces skewers optional, about 18 cm long

For the Secret Sauce

180 ml plain Greek yogurt (full-fat)
2 tbsp whole-egg mayonnaise
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp American yellow mustard
1.5 tsp garlic powder
1.5 tsp paprika
0.5 tsp salt

For Serving

4 pieces Greek pita breads warmed
2 pieces ripe tomatoes halved and sliced
0.5 piece red onion finely sliced or chopped
2 cups iceberg lettuce or greens shredded

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce — In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and salt until smooth. Let the sauce rest to allow flavors to meld.
Step 2: Mix the Kofta — Combine minced meat, garlic, paprika, mustard powder, oregano, curry powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently by hand until evenly combined.
Step 3: Shape the Kebabs — Divide the mixture into 8 portions, shape into 13 cm logs, and thread onto skewers. Flatten slightly for even cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Koftas — Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Cook kebabs for 2 minutes per side until golden brown, searing edges briefly. Adjust heat if browning too fast.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve — Arrange lettuce, tomato, and onion on a platter. Warm pita breads and spoon sauce down the center. Add kebabs, top with veggies, fold, and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before cooking. Mix the meat well so the kebabs hold together. To bake instead of pan-fry, cook at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. These kebabs are gluten-free and can be made with chicken or turkey for a leaner option.