Mini Beef Kofta with Greek Salad and Mint Kefir Dip

These succulent kebabs are crafted from spiced ground beef, shaped on petite skewers for easy handling and elegant presentation. Paired with a refreshing Greek salad and a cool kefir‑mint dipping sauce, it’s a refined take on a rustic classic.

Ingredients (makes approximately 6-8)

• 450 g ground beef
• 1 medium red onion, finely grated
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, optional and according to heat preference
• Small wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• A small handful of chopped fresh coriander, for garnish

Method

1. Prepare the Meat Mix
   In a bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, garlic, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and (if using) cayenne. Mix thoroughly by hand until well blended.
2. Shape the Kebabs
   Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, then mould each portion around a small skewer, creating slender, elongated kebabs.
3. Cook on the Grill
   Preheat your grill to a medium–high heat. Grill the kebabs for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re cooked through and have attractive char marks on all sides.
   (NOTE: If you prefer, these can be oven‑cooked at 200 °C [400 °F] for around 20–25 minutes—turn halfway through.)  
4. Garnish and Serve
   Transfer to a serving platter. Scatter the thin red‑onion slices and chopped coriander over the kebabs.

Accompaniments

• Greek Salad
  A bright, tangy Greek salad brings crispness and balance to the koftas—think tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, red onion, and a light olive‑oil dressing.
• Kefir‑Mint Dipping Sauce
  A refreshing complement: combine kefir, a pinch of salt, freshly cracked pepper, garlic (minced or pressed), a splash of lemon juice, and finely chopped mint—adjust each to taste. This adds a cooling, zesty counterpoint to the robust spiced kebabs.