Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki

If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and a little spicy, these Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki are exactly what you need. Picture perfectly seasoned ground beef mixed with fresh herbs and spices, shaped into tender meatballs or skewers, and served alongside creamy, cooling tahini and tzatziki sauces. Each bite bursts with Middle Eastern magic—spicy, tangy, and utterly satisfying. Trust me, this one’s a crowd-pleaser and a total flavor bomb you’re going to love!

Why You’ll Love Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or as an appetizer spread.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ground beef and pantry spices with fresh herbs.
Quick and Easy: Simple to mix, shape, and cook—perfect for beginner cooks.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or swap beef for lamb or turkey if you like.
Crowd-Pleasing: Rich, savory, and complemented by fresh, creamy sauces everyone loves.

Ingredients in Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki

Here’s the flavorful lineup:

Ground Beef

The meaty, juicy base packed with spices and herbs for depth.

Onion and Garlic

Add sweetness and aromatic punch to the kefta mixture.

Fresh Parsley and Mint

Bright, fresh herbs that lighten the rich meat and add authentic flavor.

Spices

Cumin, paprika, cayenne, and black pepper bring warmth and a gentle kick.

Tahini Sauce

Creamy, nutty sesame paste blended with lemon juice and garlic for richness.

Tzatziki

Cooling Greek yogurt mixed with cucumber, garlic, and dill—a perfect contrast.

Lemon Juice

Adds brightness to both sauces and balances the spicy beef.

Salt

To bring out all the flavors perfectly.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into creating these delicious kefta parcels:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your grill, oven, or skillet to medium-high heat for cooking the kefta.

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, mix ground beef with finely chopped onion, garlic, parsley, mint, spices, salt, and a splash of lemon juice. Mix gently but thoroughly.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

If grilling, oil the grates; if baking, line a sheet with parchment; if pan-frying, heat a little oil in a skillet.

Assemble the Dish

Shape the meat mixture into oval-shaped meatballs or onto skewers for grilling.

Cook to Perfection

Grill, bake, or pan-fry for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through.

Finishing Touches

Prepare the tahini sauce by mixing tahini with lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt until creamy. Mix tzatziki ingredients in a separate bowl.

Serve and Enjoy

Plate the spicy beef kefta alongside bowls of tahini and tzatziki for dipping, with warm pita or fresh salad on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: [Insert calorie count]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki

These kefta shine when paired with:

Warm Pita Bread: Perfect for scooping up kefta and sauces.
Fresh Salad: Cucumber, tomato, onion, and herbs for brightness and crunch.
Pickled Vegetables: Adds tangy contrast and color.
Rice or Couscous: Makes it a fuller meal with grains.
Grilled Veggies: Adds smoky, charred flavors to the plate.

Additional Tips

Don’t Overwork the Meat: Mix just until combined to keep kefta tender.
Chill Before Cooking: Let the mixture rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
Try Different Proteins: Lamb or turkey also work beautifully with these spices.
Adjust Spice Level: Add more cayenne or chili flakes for heat, or reduce for milder taste.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and mint make all the difference in flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these kefta ahead of time?
A1: Yes! Shape the kefta and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q2: Can I bake instead of grill or fry?
A2: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store cooled kefta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q4: Can I freeze the uncooked kefta?
A4: Yes! Freeze shaped kefta on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw before cooking.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat?
A5: Warm gently in the oven or skillet to keep them juicy.

Q6: Can I use ground lamb instead?
A6: Definitely! Lamb adds richness and is traditional in many Armenian recipes.

Q7: Are these kefta spicy?
A7: They have a gentle kick but can be made milder or hotter depending on your preference.

Q8: What’s the difference between tahini and tzatziki?
A8: Tahini is a creamy sesame paste sauce; tzatziki is a yogurt-cucumber garlic sauce—both complement the kefta perfectly.

Q9: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A9: Skip the tzatziki or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, and tahini is naturally dairy-free.

Q10: What side dishes work best?
A10: Think fresh salads, grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or warm flatbreads.

Conclusion

Spicy Beef Armenian Kefta with Tahini & Tzatziki bring a perfect harmony of bold, savory flavors and creamy, cooling sauces that will have everyone asking for seconds. They’re easy to make, packed with vibrant spices and herbs, and totally satisfying—ideal for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Ready to spice up your dinner? Let’s get cooking!

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