The vibrant flavors of Persian cuisine have a way of transporting me back to summer evenings filled with laughter and shared meals. It was on one such night that I discovered the delightful combination of smoky, spiced ground beef and cool, creamy cucumber yogurt—a dynamic duo that would quickly become a staple in my kitchen. This Quick Persian Ground Beef Skillet with Yogurt and Mint elegantly merges the best elements of kebab koobideh and mast-o-khiar into a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshingly light.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this high-protein meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, effortlessly elevating your dinner game while keeping your taste buds dancing. Trust me, your family will rave about the crispy beef paired with crunchy cucumbers and a drizzle of tangy pomegranate molasses, all layered over a luscious yogurt base. So, if you’re ready to break away from the fast food cycle and savor a homemade treasure that celebrates the rich, textured flavors of Middle Eastern cooking, follow along as we dive into this delicious adventure!
Why is Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: You only need a few ingredients and 30 minutes to create this delectable dish.
Layered flavors: The rich, spiced beef beautifully marries with the cool cucumber yogurt, providing a delightful contrast.
High protein: This meal is not only satisfying but also packed with protein, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Crowd pleaser: Its vibrant presentation and tantalizing taste are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Versatile options: Easily substitute proteins or herbs to match your dietary preferences while keeping the essence of Persian cuisine.
Enjoy a homemade experience that’s a step up from the ordinary, and let this recipe inspire your next dinner!
Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create a mouthwatering Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt!
For the Beef Kebab
- Ground Beef – Choose 80% lean for a juicy texture; ground lamb is a delicious alternative for added richness.
- Yellow Onion – Grate finely to blend seamlessly into the beef; shallots work well if you prefer a milder taste.
- Garlic – Fresh cloves add aromatic richness; use more or less based on your preference for garlic flavor.
- Turmeric – Provides lovely earthiness and a vibrant color; optional if you prefer a milder taste.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste, keeping it balanced with the yogurt.
- Walnuts – Toast for a crunch that enhances flavor; could swap with pecans for a different nuttiness.
- Raisins – Adds a hint of sweetness; we’re fans of the contrast, but dried cranberries work for a tart twist.
For the Cucumber Yogurt
- Greek Yogurt – A creamy base that brings tang; use plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free alternative.
- Mini Cucumbers – Grated for freshness and crunch; English cucumbers are a good substitute if mini ones are unavailable.
- Mint – This fresh herb brightens every bite; parsley can be used for a different flavor dimension.
- Garlic – Enhance flavor with fresh garlic; adjust based on how much garlic flavor you love.
For Serving
- Pomegranate Molasses – A drizzle adds a sweet-tangy depth; replace with a honey-lemon mix if necessary.
- Pita or Rice – Select based on your mood—pita for dipping or rice for a heartier meal.
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re well on your way to enjoying a delightful Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt that everyone will cherish!
How to Make Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt
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Prepare the Yogurt: In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumbers, chopped mint, and minced garlic. Stir well and chill in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while you cook the beef.
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Combine the Beef Mixture: In a separate large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, turmeric, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat to keep it juicy.
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Cook the Beef: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Form the beef mixture into large irregular chunks and place them in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the bottom is nicely charred.
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Toss and Add Crunch: Gently toss the beef with a wooden spoon, breaking apart any large pieces. Add the toasted walnuts and raisins, and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the flavors have melded.
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Assemble and Serve: Spread the chilled yogurt mixture on a serving platter. Top with the cooked beef, then drizzle with pomegranate molasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve warm with pita or rice.
Optional: Drizzle with extra pomegranate molasses for an added flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt?
The perfect meal deserves perfect companions to create a truly sumptuous dining experience.
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Warm Pita Bread: Soft and fluffy, pita is perfect for scooping up the beef and yogurt, enhancing the creamy texture and spices.
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Fragrant Basmati Rice: Light and aromatic, this fluffy rice pairs beautifully with the savory beef, soaking up the delightful flavors.
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Persian Salad Shirazi: A fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs adds a bright, refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the dish.
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Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, grilled veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring a delightful char and sweetness, adding depth to your meal.
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Pickled Turnips: Their tangy crunch offers a perfect contrast to the warm beef and creamy yogurt, ensuring each bite feels exciting and balanced.
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Mint Tea: A soothing herbal tea enhances the Persian theme while providing a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
Indulging in these pairings will elevate your dinner and create a feast that delights both the eyes and palate!
Make Ahead Options
This Smashed Beef Kebab with Cucumber Yogurt is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance: simply combine the ground beef with the onion, spices, and seasonings, and store it in the refrigerator. The yogurt mixture can also be assembled ahead; just mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumbers, mint, and garlic, and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor. When it’s time to eat, cook the beef in the skillet as directed, spread the yogurt on a platter, and top with the warm beef. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort, ready to enjoy!
Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt Variations
Feel free to explore new flavors and textures with these easy-to-make twists on this delightful dish!
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for turkey for a leaner option, keeping the essence of the kebab intact.
- Chickpeas: For a vegetarian twist, use mashed chickpeas instead of ground beef, seasoning with spices for flavor.
- Swap Herbs: Replace mint with dill or cilantro for a fresh take on flavor that brightens the yogurt.
- Spiced Yogurt: Add cumin or paprika to the yogurt for an extra kick of flavor that wonderfully complements the beef.
- Spicy Touch: Incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into the beef mixture for a little heat, waking up your taste buds!
- Crispy Onions: Top the dish with crispy fried onions for added crunch and a savory depth that elevates the meal.
- Quinoa Base: Serve over fluffy quinoa instead of pita or rice for a nutritious alternative packed with protein.
- Tart Cherries: Add dried tart cherries alongside raisins for a delightful sweet-tangy balance in the beef kebab.
Mix and match these variations to create a dish that feels uniquely yours, and enjoy the delicious journey through flavors with every bite!
How to Store and Freeze Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating the beef gently in a skillet preserves its juicy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warmth.
Yogurt Storage: Store the cucumber yogurt separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving for the best flavor.
Reheating: Gently reheat the beef on low heat to avoid drying it out, ensuring the delightful flavors of the Smashed Beef Kebab are maintained.
Expert Tips for Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt
- Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the beef; this keeps it juicy and tender. Form the patties carefully, treating them gently.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Cook the beef just until nicely charred but still moist inside. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture.
- Season the Yogurt: Don’t forget to season your cucumber yogurt; a pinch of salt can elevate its deliciousness, complementing the savory beef.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic maximize flavor; this dish showcases the brightness of Persian cuisine beautifully.
- Experiment with Substitutes: Try using ground turkey or lamb if you’re looking for a lighter protein, keeping the essence of Smashed Beef Kebab intact.
Smashed Beef Kebab With Cucumber Yogurt Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the perfect texture, opt for 80% lean ground beef. This provides a good balance of flavor and fat, ensuring your kebabs remain juicy. If you’re feeling adventurous, ground lamb is a fantastic substitute that enriches the dish with added depth.
How long can I store leftovers, and what’s the best method?
You can store leftovers of the beef kebab in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheating the beef in a skillet over low heat helps maintain its juiciness and flavor. It’s best to keep the cucumber yogurt stored separately for up to 2 days so it remains fresh and flavorful.
Can I freeze the beef kebabs, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze the cooked beef mixture, let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date! The kebabs can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the skillet to keep them moist.
What if my kebabs turn out dry?
Oh no, don’t worry! If your kebabs are a bit dry, it may be due to overcooking. For next time, keep an eye on the cooking time; they should be charred on the outside but still juicy inside. You can also add a bit of moisture back by serving them with the creamy cucumber yogurt, which complements the beef beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, be sure to inquire about allergies. For a dairy-free option, you can use plant-based yogurt for the cucumber mixture. Additionally, if someone is avoiding nuts, you can simply omit the walnuts or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds, maintaining the recipe’s heartiness.
Smashed Beef Kebab with Cucumber Yogurt: Your New Favorite Dinner!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, grated cucumbers, chopped mint, and minced garlic. Stir well and chill in the refrigerator.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, turmeric, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Form the beef mixture into large irregular chunks and place them in the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes until the bottom is charred.
- Gently toss the beef, add the toasted walnuts and raisins, and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
- Spread the chilled yogurt mixture on a serving platter. Top with the cooked beef, drizzle with pomegranate molasses, and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve warm.