Making kofta in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious Middle Eastern dish without all the added oil from traditional frying methods. In this article, I will show you how to make kofta in an air fryer step by step.
To make kofta in an air fryer, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, including ground beef or lamb, oil, parsley, garlic, kofta spice mix, and salt. Making kofta in an air fryer is a great way to enjoy this classic dish with less oil and less mess, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family.
Kofta Origin
Kofta is a popular Middle Eastern and South Asian dish that is made of ground meat, spices, and herbs. The word “kofta” actually comes from a Persian word that means “squished” or “ground up.” This makes sense because kofta is usually made with ground meat! The dish has been around for centuries and has been enjoyed by many cultures.
I have always been fascinated by the origins of kofta, and after doing some research, I found that the dish has a long history. It is believed that kofta originated in Persia and was introduced to India during the Mughal era. From there, it spread to other parts of South Asia and the Middle East.
The ingredients used in kofta vary depending on the region, but the basic recipe involves ground meat, onions, garlic, and spices. Some versions of the dish also include vegetables, such as tomatoes or bell peppers. Kofta can be made with beef, lamb, chicken, or even fish.
One of the things I love about kofta is that it is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. It can be served on its own as a main course, or it can be added to soups, stews, or curries. Kofta can also be grilled, baked, or fried, and in this article, I will show you how to make delicious kofta in an air fryer.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp of oil
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- ¼ cup of chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp of minced garlic
- 2 tbsp of kofta kabab spice mix (1 tbsp coriander seeds, 1 tbsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp whole black peppercorns, 1 tsp allspice, 1/2 tsp cardamom seeds, 1/2 tsp turmeric)
- 1 tsp of kosher salt
How to make kofta in an air fryer?
Get out your coffee grinder and blitz your chosen spices until they turn into a fragrant powder. This spice mix is enough to flavor 2 pounds of ground meat, so you can store any leftover seasoning for future kofta creations.
In a big bowl, toss your ground meat with the homemade spice blend. Make sure all that delicious flavor gets evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Now comes the fun part! Mold the seasoned meat mixture into small oval shapes. Imagine little mini burgers, but elongated.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once it’s nice and hot, carefully place the kababs in a single layer inside the basket. Don’t overcrowd them, or they won’t cook evenly. Give them 10-12 minutes of air frying, flipping them halfway through so they get browned on all sides.
Once your kababs are cooked through, plate them up and unleash your creativity. You can sprinkle on some fresh herbs for a pop of color, add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of tang, or both! If you’re feeling fancy, serve them with hummus or tzatziki sauce for dipping, or choose your favorite dipping companion. Enjoy your delicious homemade kofta kababs!
Nutritional Information
Calories
One serving of kofta made in an air fryer contains approximately 279 calories. This dish is low in calories, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.
Protein
Kofta is a great source of protein. One serving of kofta made in an air fryer contains approximately 20 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, and it also helps to keep you feeling full for longer periods.
Fat
Kofta made in an air fryer contains a moderate amount of fat. One serving contains approximately 20 grams of fat. However, most of the fat in kofta is healthy unsaturated fat, which is good for your heart and overall health.
Carbohydrates
Kofta made in an air fryer contains a small amount of carbohydrates. One serving contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates. This makes it a great option for those who are following a low-carb or keto diet.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
Kofta is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Rice: A simple bowl of rice is the perfect accompaniment to kofta. You can make plain rice or add some spices to give it some flavor.
- Salad: A fresh salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the kofta. Try a simple salad of lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion.
- Flatbread: Kofta is deliciously wrapped in a piece of warm flatbread. You can make your own or buy some from the store.
Presentation Tips
Here are a few tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes:
- Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro can add a pop of color to your dish.
- Plating: Arrange the kofta on a plate with the accompaniments around the edges. This will make the dish look more visually appealing.
- Serving Dish: Use a colorful serving dish to make the kofta stand out. A white plate can make the dish look bland and unappetizing.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover kofta, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent them from sticking together, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer. When reheating, follow the instructions below.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your kofta, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the kofta in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Remember, never leave cooked food out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. When in doubt, throw it out!
Conclusion
I hope this article has helped show you how to make kofta in an air fryer easily. As I mentioned earlier, using an air fryer is a great way to make healthy and tasty meals without the need for excess oil.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily make your kofta at home. Whether you prefer beef, lamb, or chicken, the air fryer is a versatile tool that can handle all types of meat.
Remember to experiment with different spices and seasonings to find the perfect flavor for your kofta. And don’t be afraid to get creative with your sides and toppings – kofta pairs well with everything from hummus to tzatziki to grilled vegetables.
Overall, making kofta in an air fryer is a simple and enjoyable process that yields delicious results every time. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how easy it can be to make this classic dish at home?
As I’ve mentioned above, pairing this kofta with flatbread is delicious!
Get this flatbread recipe now (by clicking the image below):
