Spiced Beef Kofte with Pomegranate Glaze
Beef Kofte is delicious when oven baked but even better on a barbeque, eat these outside on a warm summer’s evening and you’ll feel almost Mediterranean. Delicious with a fresh salad made with rocket, figs and cherry tomatoes.
Spiced Beef Kofte with a Pomegranate Glaze
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Roasting dish or BBQ grill
- Saucepan
- Bamboo skewers
Ingredients
For the Beef Kofte:
- 350 g lean steak mince ground beef
- 1 egg beaten
- ½ an onion finely chopped
- 1 clove of garlic crushed
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp sumac
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander chopped
- 1 small red chilli deseeded and finely chopped
- 12 mini bamboo skewers
For the Pomegranate Glaze:
- Juice and seeds of half a pomegranate
- 2 tbsp runny honey
- 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: If cooking in the oven, preheat to 180C / 350F / Gas Mark 5.
- Prepare the Koftes: In a large bowl, mix together all of the kofte ingredients and form into about 12 mini sausage-shaped portions. Place on a roasting dish for 10 – 12 minutes until cooked through, or throw on the BBQ for around 15 minutes.
- Make the Glaze: Meanwhile, combine the pomegranate juice, molasses, honey, and lemon in a saucepan. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring often.
- Finish the Koftes: Remove the koftes from the heat and leave to cool slightly before piercing with bamboo skewers.
- Combine and Serve: Combine the juice mixture with the pomegranate seeds, then pour over the koftes. Serve at once.
Notes
- These koftes can be served with a fresh salad made with rocket, figs, and cherry tomatoes for a complete meal.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add an extra chilli or some cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
- The pomegranate glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why Beef Kofte Deserves a Regular Spot in Your Meal Rotation
Kofte is one of those dishes that manages to feel both exotic and comforting at the same time. Packed with aromatic spices and rich in flavour, it’s a brilliant way to enjoy ground beef in a more exciting format than the usual burger or meatball. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the spices to shine, making it an ideal Paleo-friendly meal.
Get Creative With Sides
While the rocket, fig, and tomato salad is a stunning pairing, kofte can be complemented with a variety of fresh sides. Try:
- Grilled Zucchini Ribbons: Brushed with olive oil and lightly charred.
- Cauliflower Rice: Flavoured with lemon zest and chopped parsley for a light but satisfying base.
- Roasted Eggplant: Seasoned with garlic and cumin, then drizzled with tahini for a creamy finish.
- Carrot and Beet Slaw: A crunchy, colourful contrast with a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Build a Kofte Bowl
Create a balanced Paleo bowl with beef kofte as the star. Start with a base of leafy greens or cauliflower rice, then add sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, and a handful of fresh herbs like mint and coriander. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a nutrient-dense, flavour-packed meal.
Elevate With a Paleo-Friendly Dip
The earthy spices of kofte pair beautifully with dips and sauces. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Tahini Sauce: Blend tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and water for a creamy drizzle.
- Avocado Yoghurt Dip: Mash avocado with coconut yoghurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Roasted Capsicum Sauce: Blitz roasted red capsicum with olive oil and paprika for a vibrant red accompaniment.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Friendly
Kofte freezes brilliantly and is easy to reheat, making it a smart option for batch cooking. You can prep the spiced beef mixture in advance, shape it into logs or patties, and freeze it raw or cooked. When you're ready to eat, just thaw and reheat gently in the oven or on the grill.
Play With Protein Variations
While beef is the classic base, kofte is highly adaptable. Try mixing in different meats:
- Lamb: Rich and traditional, lamb adds depth of flavour and works beautifully with Middle Eastern spices.
- Chicken: A leaner option, best paired with plenty of herbs and a dash of smoked paprika.
- Game Meats: If you can source kangaroo or venison, their bold flavour works well in kofte when balanced with onion and warming spices.
Spice Variations to Try
Don’t be afraid to mix up your spice blend. Add or substitute:
- Sumac: For a tangy, lemony twist.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
- Ground Clove or Allspice: Use sparingly to create a more complex, warming blend.
Outdoor Cooking Tips
If you’re cooking kofte on the BBQ, skewer them and cook over indirect heat first to firm them up. Finish over direct heat for a beautifully caramelised exterior. Metal skewers work best, but if using wooden ones, soak them for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Serving a Crowd?
Kofte makes for excellent entertaining food. You can make smaller bite-sized versions and serve with a few dip options for a Paleo grazing board. Add olives, roasted nuts, and crudités for a full Mediterranean spread.
Leftovers That Don’t Feel Like Leftovers
Use leftover kofte to reinvent meals:
- Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: Slice up kofte and stuff into baked sweet potatoes with a dollop of avocado mash.
- Breakfast Hash: Crumble kofte into a pan with leftover roast veg and a fried egg.
- Paleo Wraps: Slice and wrap in lettuce or Paleo flatbread with cucumber, tomato, and a tahini drizzle.
Final Touch: Garnishes That Work
Finish your dish with fresh garnishes. Try pomegranate seeds for a juicy pop, chopped pistachios for crunch, or a handful of fresh mint and coriander to lift the flavours.
Whether you enjoy your kofte hot off the grill or tucked into a lunchbox the next day, the bold flavours and versatility make this a staple you’ll return to again and again.
Inside the Paleo Dinner Recipe Book
I've had a lot of request from people who've bought my recipes books, for a book on Paleo Dinner Recipes – and I'm pleased to announce – here it is!
I think this is the most extensive Paleo recipe book I've created to date, with over 60 recipes and beautiful full page photos of most recipes.
There’s something for everyone, with chapters based around your favourite meats:
- Chicken
- Pork
- Lamb
- Beef
- Fish & Seafood
I've also include offal and vegetarian recipes, as well as two chapters covering side dishes and sauces, to transform your dinners! There’s a good balance of quick dinners and dinners to impress with.
As someone who’s lived in metric and imperial countries, I know how annoying it is to read recipes that are only in grams, or only in ounces – so you’ll be pleased to find that all of my recipes will make sense wherever you live!
Currently the book is available as an ebook, so you can download it instantly. It comes with a 30 day guarantee and can be purchased here for $17 by credit card, debit card or paypal.
Buy Two or more Paleo Recipe Ebooks and Save
The book is $17, but I offer big discounts if you buy more than one of my recipe books in one transaction – you can find the bulk prices here.
I'm often asked if my books are available as print version – I know a lot of people prefer a physical book. Well, the good news is that I will be offering print versions soon, but at the moment, these are all digital downloads.
I’d love to hear your feedback on this book, or any others!
How to Make the Most of Your Paleo Dinner Routine
Now that The Paleo Dinner Recipe Book is available, it’s the perfect opportunity to rethink how you approach dinnertime. Many people find that breakfast and lunch are easier to keep Paleo, but dinner can sometimes feel like a challenge—especially when you're tired at the end of the day or feeding a family with different preferences. The good news? With a few smart strategies and a bit of inspiration, your Paleo dinners can be the most satisfying and stress-free meals of your day.
Building a Balanced Paleo Dinner Plate
The beauty of Paleo dinners is that they’re naturally nutrient-dense when built around high-quality proteins, colourful vegetables, and healthy fats. A balanced plate might include a portion of grilled lamb chops, roasted sweet potato wedges, and a side of sautéed kale with garlic and olive oil. Add a fermented veggie like sauerkraut for a probiotic boost and a dollop of avocado mash for creaminess, and you’ve got a meal that satisfies both hunger and health.
Using the chapters in the dinner recipe book as a base, you can build out your weekly menu by selecting a recipe from each protein category. Not only does this add variety, but it ensures you’re getting a diverse range of micronutrients throughout the week.
Quick Dinners for Busy Weeknights
We all have those nights when the last thing we want to do is cook. That’s why the book includes a range of speedy, no-fuss dinner recipes that can be on the table in 30 minutes or less. Think pan-fried pork steaks with apple slaw, stir-fried chicken with ginger and bok choy, or simple baked fish with lemon and herbs. Keeping a few of these quick options in your rotation can help you stay consistent even on your busiest evenings.
Batch-cooked ingredients can also be a lifesaver here. Roast a tray of vegetables and a whole chicken on Sunday, and you’ll have the building blocks for wraps, salads, and bowls all week long. A little prep ahead of time means you can assemble a wholesome dinner in minutes—without reaching for processed alternatives.
Dinners to Impress Without the Stress
Entertaining while eating Paleo? It’s easier than you think. The dinner recipe book includes plenty of show-stopping dishes that are perfect for guests, whether you're hosting a casual barbecue or a more formal sit-down meal. Dishes like slow-cooked lamb shoulder, almond-crumbed fish fillets, and spiced beef tagine are sure to impress, all while staying completely Paleo-compliant.
Serving a group with dietary restrictions? Many of the recipes can be adjusted for low FODMAP, keto, or dairy-free needs with simple swaps. Paleo meals tend to focus on real, whole foods, making them an excellent foundation for anyone with food sensitivities or preferences.
Creative Paleo Sides and Sauces
Side dishes often make or break a meal, and in the Paleo world, they’re where you can really let your creativity shine. The dedicated side dish chapter in the book includes options like roasted cauliflower with tahini drizzle, garlic zucchini ribbons, and crispy parsnip fries. These sides are designed to complement your mains and add flavour, texture, and variety to your plate.
Let’s not forget sauces—often the secret weapon of any good cook. Whether it’s a vibrant chimichurri, creamy avocado dressing, or coconut-based curry sauce, having a go-to sauce can elevate even the simplest protein and veg combo into something truly delicious. Batch-make your favourites and keep them in the fridge to save time throughout the week.
Incorporating Offal and Less Common Cuts
Offal might not be everyone’s first choice, but it’s one of the most nutrient-dense food groups and deserves a place in your dinner rotation. Recipes like liver and bacon, heart stew, or kidneys in mustard sauce not only provide a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals but are also far more budget-friendly than muscle meats.
If you’re new to cooking with offal, start by mixing smaller amounts into dishes you already love—like adding finely chopped liver to beef mince or blending it into meatballs. The dinner recipe book includes approachable offal recipes designed to make this nutrient goldmine more accessible and enjoyable.
Vegetarian Paleo Dinners That Satisfy
While Paleo is often associated with meat-heavy meals, it absolutely supports well-planned vegetarian dinners too. The vegetarian section of the book focuses on protein-rich options using eggs, nuts, seeds, and plenty of colourful vegetables. Recipes like stuffed capsicums with cauliflower rice, zucchini and almond fritters, or eggplant curry offer a satisfying meat-free option without relying on grains or legumes.
Vegetarian Paleo meals are ideal for lighter dinners, meatless Mondays, or those transitioning to a more plant-focused approach while keeping their diet grain-free and unprocessed.
Making the Most of Your eBook
One of the best things about the digital format is the ability to download your recipe book instantly and access it on your phone, tablet, or computer. Save your favourite recipes, create weekly meal plans, and use the zoomable photos to see exactly how each dish should look. And because it includes both metric and imperial measurements, there's no need to do any conversions—just shop, cook, and enjoy.
Planning to cook from the ebook regularly? Consider printing out your top recipes and storing them in a binder in the kitchen. That way, you’ll have a go-to set of meals at your fingertips for busy evenings when screen time isn’t ideal.
Ready to Transform Your Dinnertime?
Whether you're cooking for one, feeding a family, or hosting guests, The Paleo Dinner Recipe Book offers a versatile toolkit to keep your dinners delicious, stress-free, and perfectly aligned with your Paleo goals. With over 60 recipes covering every protein and occasion, it's the most comprehensive guide I’ve created to date—and I can’t wait for you to try it.
If you’ve already tried a few recipes from the book, I’d love to hear what you think. Which dinner has become your new favourite? Let me know in the comments or get in touch—I always appreciate your feedback and suggestions!
16 Reasons You Should Eat More Bone Broth!
Bone broth (or stock), put simply, is made by boiling up animal bones. You can add in some veggies and herbs – but the most important thing is that the bones are from healthy animals (or fish) that were raised organically, humanely on a pasture, or in the wild; i.e. from grass fed cattle, pastured poultry or wild caught fish. Using some apple cider vinegar when making the broth helps draw the mineral s and nutrients from the bones – and make sure you break of crack the bones, to ensure you can access all of the nutrients and minerals contained in the marrow inside.
Whilst you can buy it, you definitely want to make your own to be sure it’s from good quality animals – without any nasty added extras. You can try beef, bison, fish, chicken, lamb or even venison broth.
1. It is really cheap to make (your butcher or local farmer may even give you bones for free – or save the bones from your own cooking)
2. If you’re sick with no appetite, bone broth is easy to drink and will replenish much needed nutrients in your body – whilst the gelatin content will help to neutralise a virus.
3. Bone broth is high in a very usable form of calcium, magnesium, silicon, sulphur and phosphorous – not to mention lots of other trace nutrients
4. Broth is a great way to use up parts of the animal you wouldn't know what to do with – try adding in heads, feet, necks and skin!
5. Broth is a great base for many meals such as soups, stews – and a delicious home-made gravy
6. It virtually cooks itself – leave it in your slow cooker and come home to an almost ready bone broth
7. The high collagen content is great for your joints, hair, skin and nails.
8. It is even cheaper to make if you use bones of less expensive meat such as lamb and goat
9. The connective tissue in ligaments and joints are kept healthy thanks to the high concentration of the amino acids proline and glycine in bone broth.
10. You can make up a huge batch of broth and freeze it in individual portions – giving you a meal base on hand whenever you need it.
11. By encouraging smooth connective tissue, bone broth is said to be a natural cure for cellulite
12. Damaged gut lining is healed by the gelatin – which offers relief to gastrointestinal issues such as IBS, Crohn’s disease as well as constipation, diarrhea, food sensitivities and of course leaky gut.
13. The gelatin content helps aid digestion
14. The amino acid glycine (found in high concentrations in bone broth) is great to help detoxify the liver
15. Chondroitin Sulfate, found in bone broth, has not only be found to help with joint pain from osteoarthritis, it also helps to lower atherosclerosis.
16. It tastes good!
If you want to know even more about bone broth – and get lots of great recipes to make your own – check out Bone Broth: A Recipe For Health which is packed with recipes, information, tips and tricks.
Why Bone Broth Deserves a Spot in Your Paleo Meal Plan
Bone broth isn’t just a passing trend — it’s a return to the traditional way our ancestors extracted nutrition from every part of the animal. For those following a Paleo diet, bone broth offers a nutrient-dense, gut-healing, and budget-friendly addition to your weekly routine.
The combination of gelatin, collagen, amino acids like glycine and proline, and a broad spectrum of minerals makes bone broth a true superfood. It supports everything from joint health and digestion to skin elasticity, immune function, and even better sleep (thanks to the calming effects of glycine).
Making your own is easy. Throw bones into a slow cooker or Instant Pot with a splash of apple cider vinegar, cover with water, add herbs or veg scraps, and simmer low and slow for 12–24 hours. Once strained, you can store it in the fridge or freezer and use it throughout the week.
Use broth as a base for soups, stews, curries, or even just sip it on its own as a warming, nourishing drink. You can also freeze it in silicone muffin trays or ice cube trays for easy single-use portions.
If you haven’t added bone broth to your Paleo kitchen routine, now’s the time. It’s an easy way to boost your nutrient intake, reduce food waste, and make meals more satisfying.
Different Bones, Different Benefits
Not all bones are equal when it comes to making nourishing broth. Depending on which type you use, you can adjust the final flavour, nutrient profile, and texture. Marrow bones add richness and a creamy mouthfeel, while knuckle and joint bones are gelatin powerhouses. Feet, especially chicken feet, are loaded with collagen. Fish heads and carcasses yield a lighter, more delicate broth that's full of iodine and omega-3s.
If you’re new to broth making, try combining several types of bones to get a balanced mix of gelatin, minerals, and flavour. For example, mix marrow bones with a few joint bones and some meaty bones like oxtail. Always roast beef or lamb bones before simmering to deepen the flavour, but skip this step for poultry or fish for a cleaner taste.
How to Make Bone Broth Taste Even Better
While the health benefits of bone broth are undeniable, not everyone falls in love with the flavour on their first try. Fortunately, there are simple ways to enhance it without compromising its nutritional value:
- Add aromatic herbs: Bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, or parsley stems add subtle depth.
- Use onion, garlic, and celery: These add natural umami and richness to your broth.
- Include a few mushrooms: Dried or fresh mushrooms (shiitake, porcini) boost savouriness and have added immune benefits.
- Finish with sea salt or lemon juice: Season just before serving to brighten the flavour.
Don’t forget to skim the foam that rises to the top during the first hour of simmering—it helps clarify the broth and results in a cleaner-tasting final product.
Best Practices for Storing and Reheating Bone Broth
Once your broth has cooled, store it in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze it for long-term use. Glass jars are perfect for the fridge, but if you’re freezing broth, always leave space for expansion and avoid overfilling.
For convenience, freeze broth in silicone trays, then transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag. This way, you can easily defrost single portions to cook quinoa, steam veggies, or sip as a morning tonic.
When reheating, do it slowly over the stove rather than in the microwave, as high temperatures can degrade some of the beneficial compounds like gelatin. A gentle simmer is all that’s needed to bring your broth back to life.
Bone Broth for Fasting and Gut Healing
Bone broth is an excellent tool for those following intermittent fasting or therapeutic protocols like the GAPS or AIP diets. It provides nourishment without taxing the digestive system, making it ideal for gut rest days or when recovering from illness.
The gelatin in broth coats the digestive tract, while glycine supports liver function and detoxification. It can also stabilise blood sugar between meals, especially when consumed as a mid-morning or late-afternoon drink. Many people find it helps curb sugar cravings and maintain focus during fasted periods.
Using Bone Broth in Everyday Cooking
There are so many more ways to use broth than just soup. Try these creative ideas:
- Replace water with broth when cooking rice or cauliflower rice
- Add to stir-fries for moisture and flavour without extra oil
- Deglaze pans after searing meat or vegetables
- Use as a base for Paleo sauces or reductions
- Blend with roasted veggies for a simple, creamy soup
You can even use bone broth in savoury baking, such as incorporating it into Paleo breads, muffins, or savoury pies. It’s a subtle but nutrient-boosting swap that brings added flavour to your recipes.
Choosing the Right Cooking Time
The length of time you simmer your bones can affect the final taste and nutrient content. Here’s a general guide:
- Chicken bones: 12–24 hours
- Beef or lamb bones: 24–48 hours
- Fish bones: 4–6 hours
For maximum nutrition, especially gelatin and minerals, go longer. But if you’re after a lighter flavour or a quicker cooking time, shorter is fine too. An Instant Pot can speed this process up significantly, allowing you to extract nutrients in just a few hours without the long simmer.
Can You Drink Bone Broth Every Day?
Yes, and many people do. A mug of bone broth daily can support everything from gut health and immune resilience to reducing inflammation. If you're new to broth, start with a small amount and increase gradually. Some people with histamine sensitivity may prefer shorter cooking times or fresher broth for better tolerance.
Consistency is key. Like any dietary habit, the benefits of bone broth are cumulative. Incorporate it into your weekly meal plan, and over time, you’re likely to notice improvements in skin, digestion, energy, and overall wellbeing.
Join the Bone Broth Revival
Bone broth may have taken a back seat in recent decades, but it’s clearly making a well-deserved comeback. Whether you're sipping it for breakfast, cooking with it at dinner, or freezing it for future meals, you're tapping into an ancestral tradition that values nourishment, sustainability, and whole-animal eating.
So next time you have bones leftover from dinner, don’t throw them away—throw them into a pot instead. Your body, your budget, and your tastebuds will thank you.
Do you have a favourite bone broth recipe or secret ingredient? Share it in the comments!
