Beef Kofta with Tzatziki

Name: Beef Kofta with Tzatziki
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, finely grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; Salt to taste; Fresh dill (optional)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Creations

I love making Beef Kofta with Tzatziki because it’s a dish that never fails to impress my family and friends. The fragrant spices blend perfectly with the juicy beef, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Serving it with creamy, garlicky tzatziki elevates the dish, making it a refreshing complement. I always look forward to the smiles around the table when I bring this dish out, especially with a side of warm pita and fresh veggies. It’s a delightful experience that feels both special and comforting.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:42:32.425Z

When I first tried making Beef Kofta, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful the recipe was. The key to perfect kofta is blending the spices into the beef thoroughly; this is what gives each meatball that irresistible depth of flavor. I also discovered that allowing the mixture to rest for a few minutes before cooking helps the flavors meld beautifully.

What truly takes this dish to another level is the homemade tzatziki sauce. With fresh cucumbers, garlic, and yogurt, it’s refreshing and balances out the richness of the kofta. I find that making the sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to develop, making each bite a tantalizing mix of tastes and textures.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Tender and juicy meatballs infused with aromatic spices
Creamy and refreshing tzatziki that enhances each bite
A perfect dish for gatherings or any weeknight dinner

      

The Magic of Spice Blends

The key to truly flavorful beef kofta lies in the spice blend used in the meat mixture. Here, ground cumin and coriander work together to create a warm, earthy flavor that is characteristic of Middle Eastern cuisine. These spices are not just for flavor; they also aid in the overall texture of the kofta. The cumin's nutty notes combine with the bright earthiness of coriander, elevating the beef beyond standard meatballs. Experimenting with ratios can personalize the dish—consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth or a dash of cayenne for heat if that's your thing.

When mixing the beef with the spices, make sure to avoid overworking the mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough kofta; instead, gently combine the ingredients until they're just united. This ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy while still obtaining that fabulous, savory flavor from the spices. As you form the kofta into ovals, aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking; they should be about the size of a golf ball for optimal grilling.

Perfecting Tzatziki

Tzatziki is not just a simple accompaniment; it's an integral part of the dish that elevates the overall eating experience. The creamy Greek yogurt provides a rich texture that balances the savory kofta. The addition of grated cucumber brings a refreshing crunch, cut through with the sharp flavor of garlic and a hint of lemon. To achieve the perfect tzatziki, ensure that you drain the grated cucumber thoroughly to prevent your sauce from becoming watery. I recommend straining it in a fine sieve or pressing it with a paper towel for best results.

Consider adding fresh dill to your tzatziki for an extra layer of flavor. Dill complements cucumber beautifully and brings a bright herbal note to the sauce. If you're not a fan of dill, fresh mint can be a delightful alternative, providing a different yet refreshing profile. After preparing the tzatziki, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously, resulting in a vibrant and delicious sauce.

Ingredients

For the Kofta

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tzatziki

1 cup Greek yogurt
1 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt to taste
Fresh dill (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Kofta

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into ovals or meatballs.

Cook the Kofta

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the kofta for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are evenly browned and cooked through.

Make Tzatziki

In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serve

Serve the kofta warm with the tzatziki sauce on the side, along with pita bread and garnishes of choice.

Pro Tips

Rest the kofta mixture for a few minutes before cooking to let the flavors meld together and achieve a better texture in the meat.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving beef kofta, presentation can elevate the meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Arrange the kofta on a platter alongside the tzatziki sauce, and add a colorful assortment of fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and bell peppers for a beautiful tableau. A sprinkle of additional parsley or mint on top can add that professional touch, making it feel like you’re eating in a restaurant.

Pita bread is the classic accompaniment for this dish, perfect for scooping up both the kofta and tzatziki. You can warm the pita in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until soft and slightly crispy, which enhances the overall texture when paired with the kofta.

Make-Ahead Tips

This beef kofta recipe is a great candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the kofta mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop even further as the garlic and spices infuse into the meat. Form the kofta and let them chill for at least 30 minutes before grilling; this makes them easier to handle and helps them hold their shape.

The tzatziki can also be made ahead of time—ideally, up to three days in advance. This allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in a more pronounced taste profile. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, be cautious not to add any fresh herbs until just before serving, as they can lose their vibrant color otherwise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use lamb instead of beef for kofta?

Yes, lamb is a traditional choice and adds a nice flavor to the kofta.

→ How long can I store leftover tzatziki?

You can store tzatziki in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with kofta?

Kofta goes well with pita, rice, or a simple salad.

→ Can I grill the kofta?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the kofta.