If you’re looking to switch things up for dinner, try this Kofta Sandwich. It’s loaded with flavor, from the spiced meat to the creamy yogurt and fresh greens.
Also known as Kofta, Kefta, Keftes, Kufta, Kafta, and so many other names. In general, Kofte is a ball of ground meat mixed with onions and spices. Sounds like a meatball, right? It mostly is.
You can find countless variations of this dish from Albania to Israel to Turkey, and I bet everyone in each of these countries has their own recipe. I’ve tried Kofte in Turkey and Keftes in Greece, and honestly, they tasted pretty similar to me.
Table of Contents
Reasons to Love This Turkish Kofta
- These Kofta Pita Sandwiches have a delicious taste.
- They’re light but still filling, with fresh greens and pita in every bite of these Baked Kofta Sandwiches.
- This Kofta sandwich recipe is so easy to whip up, especially on those busy weeknights when time is tight.
Recipe Ingredients
- Cumin: This spice is warm and earthy, giving the kofta that unmistakable Mediterranean taste.
- Greek Yogurt: I love how the tangy, creamy yogurt pairs with the spiced meat. It adds a refreshing contrast that just works perfectly.
- Fresh Mint: Mint brings a bright, cooling flavor that lightens up the dish and balances out the richness of the meat.
For a full list of ingredients and amounts, see the recipe card below.
Variations
- Herbs and Spice Variation: You can swap out the thyme for oregano or add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle, smoky flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can give the kofta a spicy kick. Fresh cilantro can replace parsley for a citrusy note, or add a bit of dill for a refreshing, slightly tangy taste.
- Seasoning Alternatives: Consider adding Middle Eastern spices like allspice or cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist on your kofta wrap. A touch of ground sumac can introduce a tangy, lemony flavor, while za’atar adds an earthy, herbal note with hints of sesame. If you enjoy a more intense spice profile, try adding a bit of ground turmeric or ginger for extra depth.
How to Make Kofta Sandwiches
Step #1: Combine the pistachios, lamb, beef, cumin, thyme, and coriander in a large bowl. Use your hands to work the spices into the meat. Gently form the mixture into 6 equal rectangular patties.
Step #2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the meat patties and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, about 8-12 minutes total, until medium-rare or cooked to your liking.
Step #3: Meanwhile, whisk the remaining tablespoon of olive oil with half the lemon juice and add a dash of salt and pepper. Toss this dressing with the butter lettuce, red onion, parsley, and mint.
Step #4: Whisk the remaining lemon juice together with the Greek yogurt.
Step #5: Form the kofte pitas by topping each piece of pita bread with the dressed green salad and one piece of meat. Top with the Greek yogurt mixture and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.
Expert Tips
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For precise doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for medium-rare. This ensures your kofta is cooked perfectly without being overdone.
- Toast the Pita Bread: For added texture and flavor, lightly toast the pita bread before assembling. This gives the sandwiches a nice crispiness and prevents them from getting soggy.
FAQs
You can add sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, grated carrots, shredded cabbage, or thinly sliced radishes. These veggies enhance the texture and freshness of the sandwiches.
Yes, you can use different types of flatbread, such as naan, lavash, or whole wheat flatbread, instead of pita. Choose your favorite based on the texture and flavor you prefer.
Storage Info
To store Kofta Sandwiches, keep the cooked patties separate from the salad and pita. Store the patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze the patties for up to 2 months—just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350 degrees F (175°C) until heated through. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
More Delicious Recipes You’ll Love
Kofta Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pistachios
- 6 ounces ground lamb
- 6 ounces lean ground beef
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - divided
- Juice of one lemon - divided
- 1 1/2 cups butter lettuce or other salad greens
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
- 6 mini pitas - or 3 regular pieces of pita bread
- 3 ounces nonfat Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Combine the pistachios, lamb, beef, cumin, thyme, and coriander in a large bowl. Use your hands to work the spices into the meat. Gently form the mixture into 6 equal rectangular patties.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the meat patties and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, about 8-12 minutes total, until medium-rare or cooked to your liking.
- Meanwhile, whisk the remaining tablespoon of olive oil with half the lemon juice and add a dash of salt and pepper. Toss this dressing with the butter lettuce, red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Whisk the remaining lemon juice together with the Greek yogurt.
- Form the kofte pitas by topping each piece of pita bread with the dressed green salad and one piece of meat. Top with the Greek yogurt mixture and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.
NOTES
Nutrition
These were different from our usual meals but still easy to enjoy!
Kefta is one of my ‘Middle Eastern’ FAVORITES! There is a Persian place nearby which makes them into the football-type shapes and skewers them and roasts them over an open flame. The spices inside are magnificent. I am so eager to try home made kefta! I hope this will taste similar to the ones I’ve had before at Persian/”Middle Eastern Kabob shops.” Thanks!!!
These look amazing….can’t wait to try…thanks
Thanks, Ojailyn!!