koobideh and kofta are types of ground meat dishes popular in various cuisines.  

They both involve ground meat and a flavorful blend of seasonings which is molded into different shapes, skewered and the cooked  

Koobideh is a Persian dish, while Kofta can be found in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines with variations in each of these regions.  

In this post, we take a look at these dishes to find out the main differences between them. 

What is koobideh?

Koobideh is a traditional Iranian dish that consists of seasoned ground meat, typically lamb or beef, that is skewered and grilled.  

The ingredients for koobideh include ground meat, often mixed with grated onions and a blend of spices like salt, pepper, and sometimes turmeric.  

The mixture is then shaped onto flat metal skewers, creating long, cylindrical shapes. 

The skewers are then grilled over an open flame or on a barbecue.  

This method imparts a smoky flavor and contributes to the dish’s unique taste. The result is a well-cooked, juicy dish with a distinctive aroma. 

The flavor of koobideh is characterized by the combination of spices and the grilling process, resulting in a savory and aromatic profile.  

Koobideh is also known for its tenderness and moist consistency, owing to the fat content in the ground meat and the grilling method used in preparation. 

This dish is commonly served with other dishes like saffron-infused rice and grilled tomatoes.  

It can also be enjoyed with flatbreads or wrapped in lavash, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. 

What is kofta?

Kofta is a dish with origins in the Middle East and South Asia, commonly made with minced meat, spices, and sometimes vegetables.  

The ingredients for kofta may include ground beef, lamb, or chicken, combined with onions, garlic, herbs, and spices like cumin and coriander.  

The mixture of ground meat and spices is shaped into small balls or patties, which are then grilled, fried, or baked. 

The flavor of kofta is rich and savory, with a blend of aromatic spices enhancing the taste.  

The texture varies based on the type of meat used and the cooking method, ranging from moist and tender to slightly crispy on the outside. 

Kofta is versatile and can be served as a main dish, accompanied by rice or bread, or as part of various dishes like wraps, sandwiches, or curries. 

Difference between kofta and koobideh

Here are a couple of ways you can tell these dishes apart:

Shape

The shape of koobideh is a defining feature that sets it apart from the varied forms of kofta. 

Kofta is versatile in shape, often formed into round balls or flattened patties.  

It can be skewered but doesn’t adhere to a specific form.  

On the other hand, koobideh is distinct with its elongated, cylindrical shape that is traditionally pressed onto skewers before grilling.  

Ingredient

Kofta typically incorporates minced or ground meat, spices, herbs, and sometimes breadcrumbs. 

Additional ingredients like onions or garlic might be included.  

On the other hand, koobideh primarily consists of ground meat, grated onions, and various spices.  

Unlike kofta, koobideh generally does not contain breadcrumbs in its preparation. 

Spices

The specific spice combinations differentiate the taste profiles of these two ground meat dishes. 

The spice blend for kofta can vary widely, and it may often include ingredients like cumin, coriander, and mint, depending on regional preferences.  

Koobideh is typically seasoned with a mix of spices, such as saffron and sumac which contributes to its unique and distinct flavor profile.