Juicy & Flavorful Turkey Kofta Kebabs: Your Ultimate Mediterranean Grilling Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with this incredibly delicious and healthy Turkey Kofta Kebab recipe. Perfect for grilling season or a comforting oven-baked meal, these kebabs are packed with the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs and warm, aromatic spices. Ground turkey, a lean and versatile protein, is expertly blended with fragrant garlic, finely chopped onion, fresh mint, and parsley, then seasoned with a symphony of spices including cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and allspice. A touch of breadcrumbs and an egg bind this delightful mixture, forming the tender, juicy kebabs that are sure to become a family favorite.

Discovering the Delight of Turkey Kofta Kebabs

Kofta kebabs are a culinary staple across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, known for their incredible flavor and versatility. In our home, they are an absolute hit with everyone, especially the kids! From savory Chicken Kofta Kebabs to robust Grilled Beef Kafta Kebabs and classic Lamb Kofta, Middle Eastern cuisine offers a rich tapestry of options. Today, we’re thrilled to share our much-loved Turkey Kofta Kebab recipe, crafted in partnership with the Ohio Poultry Association. You’ll often encounter similar delightful kofta preparations in traditional Turkish cuisine and authentic Lebanese cuisine.

This particular Turkey Kofta Kebab recipe is a regular on our dinner table. It stands out as one of the best Turkish kebab recipes we’ve perfected, offering an easy-to-make, protein-packed meal that keeps you feeling satisfied. The harmonious blend of warm spices with lean ground turkey creates an unforgettable taste experience. We especially love serving it alongside refreshing salads such as a vibrant Fattoush Salad, a crisp Lebanese Salad, or a herby Tabbouleh. These fresh sides perfectly complement the rich flavors of the kebabs.

Beyond salads, these versatile kofta kebabs shine when served on soft pita bread or in pita pockets. Pair them with creamy Greek yogurt, a zesty dill yogurt sauce, homemade hummus, or a nutty tahini sauce for an authentic Mediterranean experience. For a heartier meal, incorporate them into rice or quinoa bowls, loaded with your favorite Mediterranean toppings like thinly sliced red onion, juicy chopped tomatoes, and cool chopped cucumbers. The possibilities are endless for creating a custom, healthy, and flavorful dish.

The Health Benefits of Ground Turkey in Your Diet

Ground turkey is a cornerstone of my weekly family meals, and for good reason. It’s an incredibly versatile ingredient, lending itself beautifully to dishes like Instant Pot Turkey Taco Pasta, Turkey Sausage and Egg Puff Pastry Pizza, zesty Thai Turkey Lettuce Wraps, or comforting Crock Pot Turkey Meatballs. What truly makes turkey shine, especially in recipes like these kofta kebabs, is its exceptional nutritional profile.

Turkey is a nutrient-rich protein source that is notably lower in fat and calories compared to many other meat options. This makes it an ideal choice for crafting delicious and healthy meals for your family. Incorporating protein-packed foods like turkey into your diet can significantly contribute to maintaining a healthy weight, as protein helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing the urge to overeat.

Beyond its leanness, turkey offers several other impressive health benefits. It provides fewer calories than many lean red meats, contains less than one-fourth of the maximum daily-recommended intake of cholesterol, and is remarkably low in total fat and saturated fat. Furthermore, turkey is a naturally low-sodium protein, typically containing less than 30 mg per ounce. These qualities make it an excellent ingredient for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Supporting Local Farmers: The Ohio Poultry Association

When it comes to feeding my family, I’m also deeply committed to supporting local farmers. That’s why I’m proud to partner with the Ohio Poultry Association. Ohio’s dedicated turkey farmers work tirelessly, 365 days a year, to ensure that the turkey gracing your family’s table is not only safe but also of the highest quality. Their commitment ensures that you and your loved ones can enjoy delicious and nutritious turkey year-round.

I encourage you to meet the Ohio turkey farmers who are the backbone of this industry. Their hard work provides wholesome turkey for countless families across the state and beyond. Ohio plays a significant role in turkey farming, producing nearly 278 million pounds of turkey annually, making it the 9th largest turkey-producing state in the nation. This robust production not only puts food on our tables but also supports our communities, creating 21,846 jobs annually and contributing over $1 billion in earnings.

The popularity of turkey has soared, with U.S. turkey consumption more than doubling since 1970. This surge is largely due to consumers recognizing turkey’s excellent taste and impressive nutritional profile. Americans of all ages appreciate turkey for its healthy, yet comforting qualities. A national study revealed that nearly half of U.S. consumers eat turkey at least once every two weeks, with a quarter regularly enjoying turkey deli meat. This trend certainly holds true for my family, as turkey remains a go-to protein!

In 2019 alone, approximately 230 million turkeys were raised on about 2,500 U.S. farms, showcasing the massive scale and importance of this industry.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Turkey Kofta Kebabs

Crafting exceptional turkey kofta kebabs starts with selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the complex and delicious flavor profile:

• Lean Ground Turkey: The star of the dish, providing a lighter base than traditional beef or lamb. We recommend 85% lean for the best balance of flavor and moisture.
• Garlic & Onion: These aromatic powerhouses form the foundation of flavor, adding depth and a savory kick. Finely mincing them ensures they meld seamlessly into the meat mixture.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh Mint and Fresh Parsley: Essential for that bright, authentic Mediterranean taste. They bring a refreshing contrast to the warm spices.
• Warm Spices: Cumin, Coriander, Cinnamon, Allspice, Cloves, Red Pepper Flakes, Oregano: This carefully selected blend creates the signature rich and complex flavor profile of kofta. Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired level of heat.
• Egg: Acts as a crucial binder, helping the kofta mixture hold its shape around the skewers and preventing it from falling apart during cooking.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a hint of acidity that brightens the overall flavor and tenderizes the meat.
• Breadcrumbs: Integral for binding the ingredients and ensuring a tender, moist texture. They also help absorb any excess moisture from the ground turkey, making the kebabs easier to form.

Crafting Your Delicious Turkey Kofta Kebabs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making these flavorful Turkey Kofta Kebabs is a straightforward process, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Follow these steps to ensure perfectly tender and juicy kebabs every time:

1. Prepare the Skewers: If you’re opting for wooden skewers or bamboo skewers, it’s crucial to soak them in water for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill. For metal skewers, simply set aside about 6-8, depending on your desired kebab size. While the skewers soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking.
2. Create the Flavorful Kofta Mixture: In a food processor, finely chop the onion and garlic until they are almost pureed. Add the ground turkey, fresh parsley, mint, salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, red pepper flakes (if using), and oregano. Pulse the mixture a few times until the ingredients are well distributed. Next, add the beaten egg and lemon juice, and process again until the turkey begins to form a thick, cohesive mixture. Finally, incorporate the breadcrumbs and process until everything is thoroughly combined.
3. Adjust and Form the Turkey Kofta: Transfer the turkey mixture from the food processor into a large bowl. Ground turkey can sometimes be a bit wetter than other ground meats. If the mixture feels excessively wet or sticky and difficult to handle, add a bit more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Use your hands to firmly mold the meat mixture into a 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick kebab shape directly around each skewer. You can make them as long as you prefer. Repeat this process until all the turkey mixture is used up.
4. Grill to Perfection: Lightly brush your preheated grill grates or grill pan with a little oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the formed kebabs on the grill over medium heat. Grill them for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, until they are beautifully browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the cooked kebabs from the grill. Serve these delicious kebabs immediately with your favorite warm pita bread, creamy hummus, fresh tabbouleh, and a generous drizzle of homemade tahini garlic sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a simple side of chopped tomatoes and cucumbers.

Expert Tips & Delicious Modifications for Your Kofta

Achieve kofta perfection with these helpful tips and feel free to get creative with modifications:

• Alternative Cooking Methods: While grilled kofta offers that irresistible smoky char, you can easily prepare these kebabs in the oven. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. For an extra crisp exterior, you can finish them under the broiler for a few minutes.
• Spice It Up: Don’t limit yourself to the spices listed! Experiment with other traditional Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices. Try adding a pinch of sumac for a tangy note, za’atar for an earthy, herbal flavor, or a dash of Greek seasoning for a different regional twist.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs are key to vibrant kofta. While parsley and mint are classic, feel free to substitute or add other fresh herbs like oregano, dill, or even a touch of basil for a slightly different aromatic profile.
• Control the Heat: If you love a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a bit of cayenne pepper to the mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit them.
• Breadcrumb Choices: Both regular breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs work well in this recipe. Panko tends to create a slightly lighter and crispier texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When preparing the kofta mixture, avoid overmixing. Overworking the meat can lead to tough kebabs. Mix just until combined.
• Rest the Meat: If time allows, cover the kofta mixture and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to an hour before forming the kebabs. This helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to handle.
• Check Doneness: The safest way to ensure your turkey kofta kebabs are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Perfect Pairings for Your Turkey Kofta Kebabs

These flavorful Turkey Kofta Kebabs are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, allowing you to create a complete and satisfying meal:

Creamy Dips and Spreads:

No Mediterranean meal is complete without some creamy dips. These kebabs work wonderfully with a variety of hummus options, such as this rich Lebanese Hummus Recipe, a bright Lemon Hummus, a smoky Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, or a zesty Spicy Hummus. Don’t forget a refreshing tzatziki or our suggested tahini garlic sauce for an extra layer of flavor!

Fresh & Vibrant Salads:

A crisp, fresh salad cuts through the richness of the kebabs perfectly. We highly recommend serving them with Mediterranean-style salads like this easy and refreshing Easy Lebanese Salad, a unique Mediterranean Eggplant Salad, or a hearty Mediterranean Bean Salad. The freshness of the vegetables provides a fantastic balance.

Wholesome Grain Bowls:

For a hearty and customizable meal, these kebabs are an excellent addition to grain bowls. Try them in vibrant Mediterranean Buddha Bowls, alongside savory Beef Kafta Meatball Bowls, or as a protein component in a Chicken Shawarma inspired dish. Simply add your favorite grains, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce.

Roasted Vegetables:

Complement the kebabs with a side of perfectly roasted vegetables. Options like colorful Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables, subtly spiced Za’atar Roasted Carrots, or earthy Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower bring additional nutrients and delightful textures to your plate.

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Turkey Kofta Kebab Recipe

By
Julia Jolliff

Prep:
15 minutes mins

Cook:
20 minutes mins

Total:
35 minutes mins

Servings:
4 servings

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This Turkey Kofta Kebab Recipe is the perfect Mediterranean meal that you can eat on its own, in a pita sandwich, hummus or rice bowls.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey , {I like 85% lean ground turkey}
• 4 cloves garlic , minced
• 1/2 sweet onion
• 3 tbsps. parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tbsps. mint, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/8 tsp. black pepper
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1/2 tsp. oregano
• 1/2 tsp. coriander
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. allspice
• 1/4 tsp. cloves
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes , or cayenne red pepper {optional}
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 1 tsp. lemon juice
• 3 tbsps. breadcrumbs
• 1 cup tahini
• 4 garlic , minced
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. If you are using wooden skewers you will want to soak them for an hour before you grill. If you are using metal skewers set about 6-8 aside depending on how big you want to make your kebabs.
2. Preheat the grill on medium-high heat for 10 minutes before you start grilling.
3. In a food processor chop the onion and garlic until finely chopped. Add the ground turkey, parsley, mint, salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, and give it a few pulses.
4. Add the egg and lemon juice and process until the turkey starts to become a thick mixture and everything is pretty well mixed together.
5. Add the breadcrumbs and process until everything is combined.
6. Remove the turkey mixture from the food processor and put it into a large mixing bowl. If the mixture feels very wet and sticky and hard to work with you can add a bit more breadcrumbs so the mixture sticks together better.
7. Use your hands to form 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick kebabs or meatballs shaped kebabs around the skewers making them as long as you want. Do this using each of the skewers until your turkey is done.
8. Brush the grill with oil. Put the kebabs on the grill and grill them over the medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on one side, flip and grill another 4 to 5 minutes.
9. Serve the kebabs with your favorite pita, hummus, tabbouleh and a drizzle of the tahini garlic sauce.
10. Put all the ingredients for the Tahini Garlic Sauce in a food processor and process until everything is combined and the sauce is smooth.
11. Add more water to reach the consistency you like.

Notes

• Keep in mind ground turkey is a much wetter ground meat to work with. You might have to add more breadcrumbs to the mixture if it seems too wet.
• These work great in many meals. Try adding them on top of Fattoush or alongside Tabbouleh.
• Make a pita sandwich out of the kebabs along with tomato, a scoop of tabbouleh, hummus and the tahini garlic sauce.
• Traditional chicken kafta doesn’t always use breadcrumbs but I like to add that in to help with the consistency of the meat and make it easier to form into kebabs on the skewers.

Nutrition

Calories: 583kcal,
Carbohydrates: 30g,
Protein: 42g,
Fat: 36g,
Saturated Fat: 6g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 15g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 13g,
Trans Fat: 0.03g,
Cholesterol: 103mg,
Sodium: 579mg,
Potassium: 869mg,
Fiber: 6g,
Sugar: 2g,
Vitamin A: 1502IU,
Vitamin C: 29mg,
Calcium: 207mg,
Iron: 7mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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Today’s post is sponsored by Ohio Poultry Association. As always, opinions are 100% my own.