Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• 1/3 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the Kefta Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, allspice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

2. 2

   Shape onto Skewers: Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Take each portion and mold it around a pre-soaked wooden skewer into a long, sausage-like shape to form the kefta.

3. 3

   Preheat and Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the kefta skewers for approximately 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until they are fully cooked and have a slightly charred exterior.

4. 4

   Prepare Tahini Sauce: While the kefta cooks, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, and salt in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary.

5. 5

   Make the Tzatziki: In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated and drained cucumber, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill until ready to serve.

6. 6

   Serve: Plate the hot spicy beef kefta skewers alongside the tahini sauce and tzatziki. Serve with pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.