Oven Baked Beef Kofta

Mains

Ingredients

Gather Your Ingredients for Oven-Baked Kofta

Ground beef or lamb (1 pound)

Onion, finely chopped (1 medium)

Garlic cloves, minced (2)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (1/4 cup)

Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

Salt (1/2 teaspoon)

Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)

Egg (1, beaten)

Bread crumbs (1/3 cup)

Directions

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Oven Kofta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures kofta cooks thoroughly without drying out.

Mix ground meat (beef, lamb, or a combination) with finely chopped onions, garlic, parsley, and your choice of spices (cumin, coriety, paprika, salt, and pepper are popular). This blend infuses the meat with rich flavors.

Add an egg and some breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. These ingredients help bind everything together, making the kofta easier to shape and preventing them from falling apart during cooking.

Knead the mixture well. Use your hands to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your kofta.

Shape the meat into oval or round shapes. You can also form them around skewers for a traditional presentation. Make sure they are not too thick, so they cook evenly.

Place the shaped kofta on a lightly greased baking sheet. Ensure there's some space between each piece to allow hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, turn the kofta over to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.

Check for doneness. Kofta should be browned outside and no longer pink inside. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 160°F (71°C) for beef and lamb.

Serve hot. Kofta pairs well with a variety of sides, such as rice, vegetables, or flatbreads. Enjoy your delicious, oven-baked kofta with your favorite dipping sauce or garnish.