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Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki Recipe

Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki Recipe


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4.9 from 15 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • 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

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Make the Tahini Sauce: Whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Gradually add water until smooth.
  4. Prepare the Tzatziki: Combine yogurt, cucumber, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready.
  5. 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