Beef Kofta Pitas with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pitas
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 cucumber, diced
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil

Steps

1. 1 In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
2. 2 Form into small, elongated meatballs.
3. 3 Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill and cook koftas until browned and cooked through.
4. 4 Whisk yogurt, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl for the sauce.
5. 5 Warm pitas in the oven or directly over the grill flame.
6. 6 Slice the pitas open, add koftas, cucumber, and a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce.
7. 7 Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Equipment

• Skillet or grill
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula

Variations

• Add diced tomatoes or feta cheese to the pita for extra flavor.
• Use lamb instead of beef for a traditional twist.

Substitutions

• Use Greek yogurt for a thicker sauce.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

Pairings

• Serve with a side of hummus and pita chips.
• A refreshing cucumber salad complements the dish well.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, soak wooden skewers in water before grilling the koftas.
• Make the yogurt sauce ahead of time to let the flavors meld.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain pita texture.

Freezing: Koftas freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a tangy tzatziki for extra zest.

FAQ