Köfte

🟤Traditional Köfte Recipe from North Cyprus – A Taste of Authentic Cypriot Cuisine

Köfte (or Kofte) is one of the most beloved dishes in North Cyprus, enjoyed at family gatherings, local taverns, and street food stalls. This delicious recipe combines simple ingredients—minced meat, herbs, and spices—into juicy patties that are grilled, baked, or fried to perfection.

In Cypriot cuisine, kofte is more than just food; it’s a reflection of tradition, hospitality, and Mediterranean flavours.

Here, we’ll share the authentic North Cyprus kofte recipe, explore its cultural roots, and show you how to prepare this classic dish in your own kitchen.
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❓What is Kofte?

Kofte is a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dish made with minced meat (usually beef, lamb, or a mixture of both) combined with fresh herbs, onion, and spices. In North Cyprus, kofte is often shaped into oval patties and cooked on a grill, giving them a smoky, mouthwatering flavour.

Kofte is commonly served with pita bread, salad, grilled vegetables, or Cypriot pilav. It’s also a favourite during family picnics and celebrations, making it one of the most iconic dishes of Cypriot gastronomy.
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🥗Ingredients for Cypriot Kofte

Here’s what you’ll need to make traditional North Cyprus kofte:
• 500g minced beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
• 1 large onion, finely grated
• 2 slices of stale bread, soaked and squeezed
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried mint (a Cypriot favourite)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• Olive oil for cooking
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👨‍🍳Step-by-Step Method

🥣 Prepare the mixture
• In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, grated onion, soaked bread, parsley, dried mint, cumin, pepper, and salt.
• Mix thoroughly with your hands until the ingredients are well combined.

🟡 Shape the kofte
• Take small handfuls of the mixture and roll them into oval or round patties, about the size of a walnut.

🍳 Cook the kofte
• Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pan or fire up the grill.
• Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

🍽️ Serve
• Serve hot with pita bread, Cypriot pilav (bulgur wheat), or a refreshing salad with lemon and olive oil.
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📝Tips for the Best Kofte

• Use a mix of lamb and beef for the richest flavour.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle Cypriot twist.
• For extra tenderness, let the kofte mixture rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking.
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✨Variations of Kofte in North Cyprus

In North Cyprus, there are several delicious variations of kofte:

• Şeftali Kebab – a Cypriot speciality where the meat mixture is wrapped in caul fat before grilling.
• Izgara Köfte – grilled kofte served with salad and bread.
• Kıbrıs Kofte – often made with potatoes mixed into the meat, giving them a unique Cypriot texture.

Each version reflects the island’s blend of Mediterranean, Turkish, and Middle Eastern culinary traditions.
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😋Why Try This Kofte Recipe?

• Authentic taste of North Cyprus – brings Mediterranean sunshine to your table.
• Quick & easy – perfect for weekday meals or weekend barbecues.
• Versatile – can be served as a snack, main course, or part of a mezze platter.
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🌸Final Thoughts

If you want to experience the flavours of North Cyprus at home, this traditional kofte recipe is the perfect place to start. Simple yet delicious, it captures the essence of Cypriot cuisine—fresh, hearty, and full of Mediterranean character.

Next time you’re planning a family meal or summer barbecue, try this authentic North Cyprus kofte recipe and bring a taste of the island to your plate.