Juicy grilled Lebanese kofta beef meatballs served with cool mint sauce and fresh garnishes

There’s something irresistibly comforting about Lebanese kofta, those juicy beef meatballs bursting with fragrant spices. If you’re craving a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing, this Lebanese kofta recipe with cool mint sauce is exactly what you need to elevate your dinner routine.

Juicy grilled Lebanese kofta beef meatballs served with cool mint sauce and fresh garnishes this Recipe
Lebanese Kofta Recipe: Juicy Beef Meatballs with Mint Sauce 3 Learn to make juicy Lebanese kofta beef meatballs served with a cool mint sauce in this easy, flavorful recipe.

You’ll find it’s easier to prepare than you might think, and the perfect balance of warm spices and bright mint will keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed recipe that’s guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Middle Eastern flavors with simple, fresh ingredients.
  • Juicy and tender beef meatballs that stay moist on the grill.
  • The cool mint sauce adds a refreshing contrast that brightens the dish.
  • Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
  • Quick prep and cook time make it weeknight-friendly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make juicy Lebanese kofta and a cool mint sauce that complements perfectly.

Kofta Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Cool Mint Sauce

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

How to Make Lebanese Kofta: Juicy Beef Meatballs with Cool Mint Sauce

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, allspice, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into 12 evenly sized oval or round meatballs, about 2 ounces each, ensuring they’re packed firmly but not overworked.
  3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the kofta meatballs for 5-6 minutes per side, turning carefully, until nicely browned and cooked through with an internal temperature of 160°F.
  5. While the meatballs cook, prepare the cool mint sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, chopped mint, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and olive oil in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Remove the kofta from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with the cool mint sauce on the side or drizzled over.
  7. Optional: Garnish with extra parsley, mint leaves, and lemon wedges for brightness.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use ground beef with some fat (80/20) to keep the meatballs juicy.
  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture or the kofta will be dense.
  • Chop herbs finely for even flavor distribution.
  • If you don’t have a grill, you can broil or pan-fry the kofta meatballs instead.
  • Make the mint sauce ahead and chill for deeper flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover kofta meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the mint sauce separate to preserve its freshness.

To reheat, warm the kofta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Stir the sauce before serving chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground lamb instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground lamb works wonderfully in kofta and adds a richer flavor. You can substitute it 1:1 with beef in this recipe.

What can I serve with Lebanese kofta?

Serve kofta with warm pita bread, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad like tabbouleh for a complete Middle Eastern-inspired meal.

Is it okay to bake the kofta instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and browned.

Can I prepare the kofta mixture in advance?

Yes, you can mix the meatball ingredients and shape them a few hours ahead, storing them covered in the fridge until ready to cook.

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