Spiced Harissa Beef-and-Lamb Koftas

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These spiced harissa beef and lamb koftas are seasoned with the bold flavors of turmeric, cumin, and harissa paste, shaped around skewers, and grilled.

By
Juliana Hale
Juliana Hale
Juliana Hale
Juliana Hale is a culinary specialist with over 20 years of experience in recipe testing and development. She works closely with Allrecipes, Better Homes & Gardens, Forks Over Knives, Midwest Living, and Traditional Home both in the test kitchens and with her stories.
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Published on May 9, 2024
Grilled kofta on wooden platter with yogurt sauce
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
15 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
6
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 6 servings

  • 1 pound 85% lean ground beef chuck

  • 8 ounces ground lamb

  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten

  • 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

  • 1/4 cup grated onion

  • 2 tablespoons harissa paste (see Note)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons tahini (sesame seed paste)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley

  • 1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat (350 to 375 degrees F (175 to 190 degrees C)).

  2. Combine beef, lamb, egg, cilantro, onion, harissa, garlic, coriander, 1 teaspoon salt, the cumin, turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Be careful not to overmix, or meat will be tough. Shape mixture around 6 (10-inch) skewers, making the meat mixture 1-inch thick around the skewers.

  3. Oil grill grates. Grill koftas, covered, turning occasionally, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into centers registers 160 degrees F (71 degrees C), about 15 minutes.

  4. Meanwhile, stir yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, parsley, and 1/8 teaspoon salt together in a small bowl. Serve yogurt sauce with koftas.

    Cook’s Note

    Harissa is available as a sauce or as a paste, which have distinct consistencies. Brands also differ by ingredients and heat level, so start with a small amount and taste before adding more.

    If using wooden skewers, soak 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

366 Calories
23g Fat
6g Carbs
34g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 6
Calories 366
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 23g 29%
Saturated Fat 8g 41%
Cholesterol 136mg 45%
Sodium 597mg 26%
Total Carbohydrate 6g 2%
Dietary Fiber 1g 5%
Total Sugars 2g
Protein 34g 67%
Vitamin C 3mg 3%
Calcium 86mg 7%
Iron 4mg 23%
Potassium 608mg 13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.