Spiced Harissa Beef-and-Lamb Koftas Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

This flavorful kofta recipe combines tender ground beef and lamb with aromatic spices, grilled to perfection. Paired with a creamy yogurt sauce, it makes for a savory and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 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
• 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 your grill to medium heat (350 to 375F or 175 to 190C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, lamb, beaten egg, cilantro, grated onion, harissa paste, minced garlic, ground coriander, salt, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon. Be cautious not to overmix the meat mixture to ensure it stays tender.
3. Take 6 skewers (10 inches long) and carefully mold the meat mixture around them. Ensure that the meat is about 1 inch thick around the skewers.
4. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cover. Grill the koftas, turning occasionally, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the centers reads 160F (71C), about 15 minutes.
6. While the koftas are grilling, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, fresh parsley, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.
7. Once the koftas are fully cooked, remove them from the grill and serve with the creamy yogurt sauce.

Cook's Note

Harissa can be found either as a sauce or a paste, each with different consistencies. The heat level may vary by brand, so start by adding a small amount, then adjust to taste. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	23g Fat	6g Carbs	34g Protein
366	29% Daily Value	2% Daily Value	67% Daily Value
Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium	Dietary Fiber
8g (41%)	136mg (45%)	597mg (26%)	1g (5%)
Total Sugars	Vitamin C	Calcium	Iron
2g	3mg (3%)	86mg (7%)	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.

The Origins and Cultural Journey of Spiced Harissa Beef-and-Lamb Koftas

Koftas, ground meat shaped into skewers or balls, have a long and diverse history stretching across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. The spiced beef-and-lamb version with harissa is a more contemporary adaptation that blends traditional Levantine and Maghrebi flavors. Harissa, a fiery chili paste originating from Tunisia, adds a distinct warmth and depth, turning the humble kofta into a bold, aromatic dish. This combination of beef and lamb harks back to the ancient culinary practice of mixing meats to balance flavor and texture, ensuring juiciness and richness.

Regional Variations and Unique Twists

While koftas are found throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of South Asia, the use of harissa specifically ties this recipe to North African influence. In Tunisia and Morocco, harissa is often blended with garlic, coriander, and cumin, giving the skewers a smoky, piquant flavor profile. In contrast, Levantine koftas might rely more on parsley, mint, and allspice, producing a fresher and lighter taste. Even within North Africa, recipes vary by region: some include paprika or caraway seeds, while coastal versions may incorporate seafood elements.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

At first glance, spiced harissa koftas may resemble kebabs or meatballs, yet they are distinct in several ways. Unlike standard kebabs, which often use cubed meat, koftas are always ground, allowing for more even seasoning and tenderness. Compared to classic meatballs, these koftas are grilled on skewers, creating a subtle char and smoky aroma. The inclusion of harissa paste introduces a uniquely North African heat and depth, differentiating them from Turkish or Greek variations, which tend to be milder and use yogurt or tahini-based sauces more sparingly.

Typical Serving Occasions

Spiced harissa koftas are versatile and appear in a variety of settings. They are a popular feature at outdoor barbecues and festive family gatherings, where grilling over an open flame adds to their appeal. In restaurants, they are often served as part of a meze platter with accompaniments like yogurt sauce, tabbouleh, or flatbreads. Street food vendors in North Africa and the Middle East also serve smaller versions, perfect for handheld enjoyment. Their combination of smoky, spicy, and savory notes makes them ideal for both casual meals and celebratory feasts.

Interesting Facts and Culinary Insights

Koftas have been enjoyed for centuries, with references dating back to medieval Middle Eastern cookbooks. Harissa itself has an intriguing backstory: originally created to preserve and intensify flavors in harsh desert climates, it has since become a staple in modern kitchens worldwide. A subtle tip for home cooks: harissa varies in heat depending on the chili variety and brand, so tasting and adjusting gradually is key. Additionally, blending beef and lamb in koftas enhances both flavor and texture, as lamb provides richness while beef adds a leaner bite. Grilling the koftas rather than pan-frying creates a smoky, caramelized exterior, which contrasts beautifully with a cool, creamy yogurt sauce.

FAQ about Spiced Harissa Beef-and-Lamb Koftas Recipe