Grilled kofta wraps have recently become a popular dish in my household. The first time I made them, the aroma wafting through the house drew my family to the kitchen even before I finished cooking. The blend of spices and herbs with the succulent beef or lamb creates a flavor profile that’s hard to resist. As we sat around the dinner table, each bite was met with a chorus of approval, making it clear that this recipe was a new favorite. The combination of grilled meat, fresh vegetables, and a tangy sauce wrapped in a warm flatbread was not only delicious but also offered a fun and interactive dining experience. Everyone loved customizing their wraps with different toppings, making it a versatile meal that suits various tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect grilled kofta wrap starts with gathering the right ingredients. For the kofta, you’ll need:

• 1 pound of ground lamb or beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of fresh mint, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the wraps, gather:

• 4 large flatbreads or pita breads
• 1 cup of Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 cup of chopped lettuce
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

Start by preparing the kofta mixture. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat with the chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. Once mixed, divide the meat into equal portions and shape each into a long sausage-like form around skewers.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the kofta skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the meat is fully cooked and has a nice char. While the kofta is grilling, prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Set aside.

Warm the flatbreads on the grill for a minute on each side, just until they are pliable. To assemble the wraps, spread a generous amount of yogurt sauce on each flatbread. Place a kofta skewer in the center, then add lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion. Carefully remove the skewer while leaving the meat in the wrap. Fold the sides of the flatbread over the filling and serve.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Each serving contains about 450 calories, making it a hearty meal that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The use of fresh vegetables and herbs adds vitamins and minerals, contributing to a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Preparation Time

Preparing grilled kofta wraps is relatively quick and straightforward, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. The total preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with 10 minutes for preparing the kofta mixture, 10 minutes for grilling, and another 10 minutes for assembling the wraps. This efficiency allows you to enjoy a homemade, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

• As a Main Dish: Serve the grilled kofta wraps with a side of homemade hummus or baba ghanoush for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
• Family Style: Lay out all the ingredients and let everyone build their own wrap, adding a personal touch to their meal.
• With a Salad: Pair the wraps with a fresh tabbouleh or Greek salad to add more greens to your plate.
• As a Picnic Meal: Pack the components separately and assemble the wraps on-site for a delicious outdoor meal.
• Party Platter: Cut the wraps into smaller portions for an easy-to-eat appetizer at gatherings.

Additional Tips

1. Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
2. Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the spices in the kofta mixture according to your taste preferences for more or less heat.
3. Experiment with Sauces: Try different sauces like tahini or spicy harissa for a new twist on the classic yogurt sauce.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the kofta mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to save time on the day you plan to cook.
5. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the kofta is fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
2. What is the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover cooked kofta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze the kofta mixture? Absolutely! Shape the kofta mixture into patties or logs, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
4. What if I don’t have a grill? You can cook the kofta in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat, following the same timing as if using a grill.
5. How can I make it vegetarian? Substitute the meat with a mixture of mashed chickpeas and breadcrumbs, adjusting the spices to maintain the flavor.