How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the kofte mixture and cucumber yogurt a day in advance.

What are good substitutes for sumac?

Lemon zest or vinegar can provide a similar tangy flavor if sumac is unavailable.

Can I freeze the kofte?

Yes, freeze the uncooked kofte patties on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the meat with a blend of lentils and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Turkish Sumac-Dusted Grilled Kofte with Cucumber Yogurt

Name: Turkish Sumac-Dusted Grilled Kofte with Cucumber Yogurt
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 500g ground lamb or beef; 1 medium onion, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1.5 teaspoons sumac; Salt and pepper; 1 cucumber; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; Salt and pepper; 1 tablespoon sumac; Fresh parsley leaves; Lemon wedges; Pita bread

A flavorful Turkish delight with a refreshing twist.

Juicy, grilled kofte seasoned with sumac paired with a creamy cucumber yogurt dip that brings a refreshing balance to the dish.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Kofte

500g ground lamb or beef

1 medium onion, grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1.5 teaspoons sumac

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Cucumber Yogurt

1 cucumber

grated and drained

1 cup plain yogurt

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Topping

1 tablespoon sumac

for dusting

Fresh parsley leaves

For the Garnishing

Lemon wedges

Pita bread

warmed

Preparation

Marinating the Kofte

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, sumac, salt, and pepper.

Mix gently

Mix gently using your hands until well combined.

Rest the mixture

Cover and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Chef’s Tip: Letting the kofte mixture rest before grilling enhances the flavors.

Preparing the Cucumber Yogurt

Drain cucumber

Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean cloth.

Ensure the cucumber is well-drained to avoid a watery dip.

Combine ingredients

In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, yogurt, minced garlic, dill, salt, and pepper.

Chill

Chill in the refrigerator until serving time.

Pro Tip: Adding a dash of olive oil to cucumber yogurt enhances its flavor.

Cooking Process

Grill the kofte

Shape the mixture into oval patties or threads on skewers. Grill on medium-high heat until cooked through and browned on both sides.

Warm pita and prepare garnishes

Warm the pita and slice the lemon into wedges.

Serve the cucumber yogurt

Serve the chilled cucumber yogurt alongside the kofte.

Plating & Serving