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.

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5 from 1 vote

Spiced Beef Kofte with a Pomegranate Glaze

Beef Kofte is delicious when oven-baked but even better on a barbeque. Enjoy these outside on a warm summer’s evening for a Mediterranean feel. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad made of rocket, figs, and cherry tomatoes.

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Cook Time15 minutes mins

Total Time35 minutes mins

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Paleo

Keyword: Beef Kofte, Paleo Beef Recipe, Pomegranate Glaze

Servings: 12 mini koftes

Calories: 150kcal

Cost: $20

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.