Juicy Beef Kofta Skewers with Veggie Rice Pilaf
Before we jump into the spices and sizzle, I just want to say—thank you. Really. Whether you stumbled upon this recipe in your quest for something flavorful or you’ve been cooking along with me for a while, I’m so grateful you’re here. Sharing these recipes is a slice of joy for me, and knowing you’re making them in your kitchens? That’s the best part!
Today, I’ve got something hearty, savory, and anything but boring!! — Juicy Beef Kofta Skewers paired with a light, buttery rice pilaf flecked with sweet green peas and tender carrot cubes. This is comfort food with bold flair, Middle Eastern-inspired but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Kofta skewers are a flavor bomb of seasoned ground beef, shaped onto sticks and grilled to juicy perfection. And when you nestle them next to that fluffy rice dotted with colorful veggies? Oh, it’s magic on a plate!
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Quick and Easy – Ready in about 40 minutes!
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Kid-friendly – That mild, meaty flavor and colorful rice? Total hit.
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Meal prep friendly – These skewers reheat like a dream.
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Gluten-free (just check your breadcrumbs or skip them entirely!).
What Does This Dish Taste Like?
The beef koftas are juicy, spiced with warm aromatics like cumin and paprika, and kissed by that smoky char from the grill. Paired with the buttery softness of white rice and the slight sweetness from peas and carrots—this dish is savory, soothing, and deeply satisfying.
Benefits of This Recipe
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High in protein
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Great freezer option (make the koftas ahead!)
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Balanced meal with carbs, veggies, and protein
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Versatile—easily swap or add spices, veggies, or meats
Ingredients
For the Kofta Skewers:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
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1 small onion, grated
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp ground cumin
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp ground coriander
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp chopped parsley
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
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Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Veggie Rice Pilaf:
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1 cup long-grain white rice
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1 1/2 cups water or broth
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1/2 cup frozen green peas
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1/2 cup diced carrots
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1 tbsp butter or olive oil
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Salt to taste
Tools You’ll Need
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Grill or grill pan
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Large mixing bowl
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Saucepan with lid
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Wooden spoon
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Fine grater (for the onion)
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
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Ground lamb or turkey works well in place of beef.
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Want it spicier? Add red chili flakes or harissa to the meat mix.
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Try adding mint or dill to the rice for a twist.
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For extra richness, stir in a bit of ghee into the cooked rice.
How to Make Kofta Skewers with Veggie Rice Pilaf
Step 1: Prep the Kofta Mix
In a large bowl, combine all kofta ingredients. Mix gently until well blended—don’t overmix or the meat will toughen. Divide into 4-6 portions and shape around skewers.
Step 2: Cook the Koftas
Preheat your grill or pan over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely charred.
Step 3: Cook the Rice Pilaf
While the koftas cook, bring water or broth to a boil. Add rice, butter, and salt. Reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, add in the peas and carrots. Let it all steam together.
Step 4: Fluff and Serve
Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and plate it up with those juicy koftas right alongside!
What to Serve with This Dish
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Tzatziki or Garlic Yogurt Sauce
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Flatbread or Pita
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Fresh tomato-cucumber salad
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A drizzle of lemon juice over the koftas for brightness
Tips for Perfect Koftas
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Chill the skewers for 10 minutes before grilling to help them hold their shape.
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Oil your hands to prevent sticking while shaping the meat.
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Don’t overcook—they’re best juicy and just cooked through.
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked or raw koftas (separated with parchment paper) for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave or gently reheat in a covered pan with a splash of water.
General Info
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Serves: 4
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 25 minutes
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Cuisine: Middle Eastern-inspired, weeknight-friendly
FAQ
Can I bake the koftas instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the koftas with store-bought veggie kebabs or make your own using lentils, beans, and spices.
What’s the best rice to use?
Long-grain white rice or basmati works beautifully for this dish.
Conclusion
This dish is everything I love in a weeknight dinner—fast, flavorful, and full of vibrant, real ingredients. It looks impressive, smells incredible while cooking, and comes together without a fuss. If you’re new to koftas, welcome to the obsession!
Craving more dishes like this? Try my Peach Glazed Chicken Thighs, or Grilled Peach and Halloumi Skewers next!
Share Your Plate!
Tried it? Loved it? I’d love to see it! 💛
Drop a review below, and don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest or Instagram. Tag me so I can cheer you on!
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, approx.)
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Calories: 480
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Protein: 28g
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Carbs: 32g
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Fat: 25g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 420mg