If you’re ready for a flavor journey, nothing satisfies quite like Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki. This is a dish that wakes up your senses: juicy, spice-kissed kefta sizzling on the grill, creamy tahini with just the right nuttiness, and cool, herb-flecked tzatziki to tie everything together. Each bite bursts with aromatic spices and vibrant herbs, making it a sensational option for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With classic Middle Eastern roots and irresistible, fresh flavors, this duo of sauces ensures your kefta is never dry and always deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The glory of Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki is in its simplicity! Every ingredient builds on the next—some provide tenderness, others brighten the flavors, while the right mix of spices conjures up that signature Armenian warmth.
- Ground Beef (1 pound, 85% lean): The base of the kefta, offering richness and just enough fat to keep everything juicy.
- Onion (1 small, grated): Adds moisture and gentle sweetness, virtually melting into the meat for tenderness.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced for kefta; 1 clove each for sauces): Brings sharpness and depth to both kefta and sauces.
- Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Lends color and a pop of clean, herbal flavor.
- Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon): Infuses umami and subtle tang.
- Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): Delivers earthy complexity that feels essential.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Supplies vibrant color and gentle smokiness.
- Ground Allspice (1/2 teaspoon): Offers warmth that’s uniquely Armenian.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon): Bumps up the heat for that “spicy” kick.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a subtle sweet-spice background note.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for balancing and bringing out all the flavors.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For grilling or pan-frying, ensures a gorgeous crust.
- Tahini (1/4 cup): The star of the nutty, creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with spiced kefta.
- Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon): Brightens both sauces and keeps flavors dynamic.
- Plain Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): The base of tzatziki, ensuring lush creaminess.
- Finely Grated Cucumber (1/4 cup, squeezed dry): Adds crisp freshness to the tzatziki.
- Fresh Dill (1 tablespoon, chopped): Brings an unmistakable herbaceous lift to tzatziki.
- Cold Water (2–3 tablespoons): Helps make the tahini sauce perfectly pourable.
- Salt & Pepper to taste (for sauces): Simple yet completely necessary.
How to Make Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki
Step 1: Mix the Kefta Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and add the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, tomato paste, and all those enchanting spices. Use your hands—really get in there—so everything’s blended and every bite bursts with flavor. You want the mixture to feel cohesive, but don’t overmix or the kefta might turn tough.
Step 2: Shape the Kefta
Take small handfuls of the mixture and shape them into oval patties or little logs, about the size of a large finger. These shape up beautifully for grilling or pan-searing, and the little bit of extra surface area helps get that irresistible browned crust.
Step 3: Cook the Kefta
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, or get your grill preheated. Cook the kefta for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. They should be gorgeously browned on the outside and cooked through, yet still moist and tender.
Step 4: Whip Up the Tahini Sauce
While the kefta sizzles, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt. Slowly stream in cold water as you whisk until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and pourable. Adjust the water and seasoning to reach the texture and taste you love.
Step 5: Make the Tzatziki
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (be sure to squeeze out any excess water), lemon juice, garlic, and fresh dill. Season with a little salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and pop it in the fridge to chill while you finish up the rest. You want it cold and tangy!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Arrange the hot, fragrant kefta on a platter and drizzle with tahini sauce, or serve the sauces alongside for dipping. Don’t forget warm flatbread, a fluffy bed of rice, or a zippy salad to round out your Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki experience.
How to Serve Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki
Garnishes
Scatter over some extra chopped parsley, a dusting of sumac, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. A squeeze of lemon brightens things up, and for a finishing flourish, a few pomegranate seeds give a tart, jewel-like pop that’s just stunning against the creamy sauces.
Side Dishes
These kefta crave classic accompaniments. Fluffy, buttered rice, warm pita or lavash, a crisp cucumber-tomato salad, or even simple roasted veggies—all make perfect sides for Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki. You can’t go wrong, and the colors on your plate will make every meal feel festive.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your kefta as sliders on mini brioche buns with both sauces as spreads. Or try building Middle Eastern “tacos” with flatbread, kefta, lettuce, chopped tomato, and a generous drizzle of both the tahini and tzatziki. Little kefta skewers also make perfect party appetizers—serve with sauce “shots” for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, let the kefta cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the tahini and tzatziki sauces in separate containers, and they’ll stay fresh for just as long.
Freezing
The uncooked kefta can be shaped and frozen in a single layer on a sheet tray, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. While the sauces don’t freeze well, the kefta themselves are freezer-friendly and just as delicious reheated.
Reheating
To reheat Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki, place the kefta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, cover, and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, warm them in a 300°F oven, covered loosely with foil, to retain their juiciness. Give the sauces a good stir before serving alongside.
FAQs
Can I use ground lamb instead of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Lamb is a traditional and utterly delicious option for Armenian kefta. You can use all lamb or do a half-and-half blend with beef for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
How spicy is the kefta with this recipe?
The level of heat is moderate—just enough to keep things interesting, thanks to the crushed red pepper flakes. If you love big heat, feel free to add a pinch more; if you prefer things milder, reduce the amount or omit altogether.
Can I grill the kefta instead of pan-frying?
Definitely! Grilling brings a wonderful smoky depth to Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki. Just remember to oil your grill grates well and cook over medium-high heat to prevent sticking.
Can I make the sauces ahead of time?
Both the tahini and tzatziki are fantastic when made ahead—just cover tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making them even tastier.
What are some good toppings or add-ins for extra flavor?
Try finely chopped mint, a sprinkle of Za’atar, fresh cilantro, or thinly sliced red onions. For more tang, add a splash of vinegar or pomegranate molasses to the sauces. These variations let you customize Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki to your palate!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something bold and unforgettable, treat yourself to Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki. Every bite is a celebration of spice, freshness, and comfort. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to for both quiet nights in and lively dinner parties. Gather your friends, fire up the stove or grill, and let the magic happen!
Print
Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki is a tantalizing dish featuring flavorful ground beef patties seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices. Served alongside creamy tahini sauce and refreshing tzatziki, this Middle Eastern-inspired meal is perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
For the Kefta:
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying)
For the Tahini Sauce:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons cold water
- Pinch of salt
For the Tzatziki:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup finely grated cucumber (squeezed dry)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Kefta: In a large bowl, mix ground beef with grated onion, garlic, parsley, tomato paste, and spices. Shape into small oval patties or logs.
- Cook the Kefta: Heat olive oil in a skillet or preheat a grill. Cook kefta for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Make the Tahini Sauce: Whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Gradually add water until smooth.
- Prepare the Tzatziki: Combine yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready.
- Serve: Enjoy the kefta hot with sauces on the side, paired with flatbread, rice, or salad.
Notes
- You can use ground lamb or a beef-lamb blend for varied taste.
- The sauces can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- For a smoky flavor, grill the kefta over charcoal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Armenian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3–4 kefta with sauces
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
