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Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini and Tzatziki Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 148 reviews

Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring ground beef mixed with fresh herbs and spices, shaped into logs or patties, and cooked to perfection on the grill or pan-fried. Served with creamy tahini and refreshing tzatziki sauces, this recipe combines bold and fresh flavors, making it perfect for a flavorful lunch or dinner served with warm pita and optional sides of roasted vegetables or salad.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Kefta

  • 500g lean ground beef
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes or finely chopped fresh chili (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for cooking)

For the Tahini Sauce

  • 1/3 cup tahini paste
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced
  • 2–3 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste

For the Tzatziki Sauce

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, grated or finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnishes & Serving

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Sumac or paprika for sprinkling (optional)
  • Warm pita bread, roasted vegetables or salad (optional sides)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with finely chopped parsley, mint, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture becomes fragrant.
  2. Shape the Kefta: Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then take portions of the meat mixture and form them into long, finger-sized logs around skewers or shape into small patties. Ensure they are compact to hold their shape during cooking.
  3. Cook the Kefta: Preheat a grill or frying pan to medium-high heat. Grill the kefta logs or patties for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and have a nice char. Alternatively, pan-fry them with a splash of olive oil until golden brown and fully cooked inside.
  4. Prepare the Tahini Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and olive oil. Gradually add water, a tablespoon at a time, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency to your liking.
  5. Make the Tzatziki: Combine Greek yogurt with grated or finely chopped cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, fresh dill (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors before serving.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Arrange the cooked kefta on a serving platter. Drizzle the tahini sauce over them or serve on the side. Accompany with tzatziki for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of sumac or paprika for extra color and flavor, and lemon wedges. Serve with warm pita bread and optional sides like roasted vegetables or salad.

Notes

  • Keep hands wet while shaping kefta to prevent sticking and maintain smoothness.
  • Rest shaped kefta in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better.
  • Use fresh parsley and mint to brighten flavor and aroma.
  • Adjust chili amount to suit your preferred spice level.
  • Make tahini and tzatziki sauces ahead of time to allow flavors to develop.

Keywords: Spicy Beef Kefta, Armenian Kefta, Tahini Sauce, Tzatziki, Middle Eastern Beef Kebabs, Grilled Beef, Mediterranean Meatballs

Find it online: https://tastemadebyclara.com/spicy-beef-armenian-kefta-with-tahini-and-tzatziki-recipe/